Rep. Patrick Kennedy back in rehab

WASHINGTON, June 12 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., announced Friday he is returning to a rehab program.

Kennedy's office released a brief statement that did not say where he was seeking treatment, Politico reported. He was in rehab in 2006 after he became involved in a crash on Capitol Hill, driving his sport utility vehicle into a barricade.

"I have decided to temporarily step away from my normal routine to ensure that I am being as vigilant as possible in my recovery,'' Kennedy said. "I hope that in some small way my decision to be proactive and public in my efforts to remain healthy can help remove the stigma that has served as a barrier for many Americans reluctant to get the help they needed.''

Kennedy, the youngest of three children of Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., has acknowledged having a drinking and drug problem and suffering from bipolar disorder.