'Stigma is not yet broken.' Lawmakers share stories on mental health with Fetterman hospitalized

As the Pennsylvania Democrat remains hospitalized for clinical depression – a medical condition impacting half the country – members and former members of Congress shared personal stories with USA TODAY that show even the nation's political leaders are not spared this struggle.

"There's no need to hide it. There's no need to be ashamed of it," Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., told USA TODAY.

The nation's elite political class who have experienced mental illness come from wealthy and poor backgrounds alike. They've had advantages. They've had disadvantages.

They are proof depression can impact anyone – and doesn't always need a reason to begin – and there's help available…