(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons )

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

ANCHOR NEVILLE MILLER

The mystery of Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr.’s disappearance has been solved. CNN has the details .

“The Chicago Congressman has released a statement saying he is at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He is undergoing an extensive inpatient evaluation for depression and gastrointestinal issues.”

The son of civil rights activist Jesse Jackson senior took a leave from office on June 10. But his office didn’t disclose his absence until weeks later and were very quiet about the details. The Wall Street Journal reports .

“It wasn't until two weeks after he was on leave that his staff acknowledged publicly that he wasn't working. At the time, they said only he was being treated for exhaustion but didn't say where. Later they added that his condition was more serious and that he was being treated for a mood disorder.”

As weeks passed rumors circulated about the democrat’s disappearance from Capitol Hill. The Atlantic Wire reflects on the early speculations of Jackson’s whereabouts.

“A few weeks ago there was a lot of coverage surrounding the mysterious, unexplained disappearance of Jesse Jackson Jr. There were reports he was in rehab for alcoholism, for depression, and even a rumor he attempted suicide...”

It appears one of the rumors was true — Jackson is being evaluated for depression. The Examiner explains the stigma associated with depression prompted the congressmen to seek treatment on “the sly.”

“Add to that the very public spotlight on the Democratic state rep in light of possible ethics violation allegations—and his relationship to his famous father Reverend Jesse Jackson—and you can understand his desire to avoid public speculation about his personal mental health issues.” 

Jackson finally revealed the details of his whereabouts after fellow democrats said he should be more forthcoming about his condition. According to the Associated Press , Jackson is up for re-election in November where he is expected to be the favorite.