House Of Representatives

Updated July 07, 2009

After Another Stint in Rehab, Rep. Patrick Kennedy Returns to Congress

by  

AP

Sen. Ted Kennedy's son has spent a month in an addiction treatment center after acknowledging a lifelong struggle with alcoholism, addiction and depression.

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Patrick Kennedy said he's "feeling healthy and strong" and plans to return to Congress Tuesday after receiving treatment at a Maryland addiction treatment center.

The Rhode Island Democrat said Monday he was looking forward to returning full-time to his congressional duties.

"The support and words of encouragement I have received over the past few weeks certainly help to support my efforts in recovery which I take seriously every day," Kennedy said in a statement.

The congressman, who has struggled with depression, alcoholism and addiction for much of his life, checked into the Father Martin's Ashley in Havre de Grace, Md., last month. The son of Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., has called his treatment "a lifelong process."

The congressman spent the July 4 weekend on Cape Cod visiting his father, who is battling brain cancer.

Kennedy previously sought treatment after an early morning car crash near the Capitol three years ago.

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