Question: What influence are modifications to the workforce during the Trump era having on your psychological well-being, as per a survey?
The upcoming virtual event, "Workforce Reimagined," scheduled for August 26, aims to build a skilled, resilient, and adaptable federal workforce. This one-day event comes amidst a climate of instability and uncertainty across the federal workforce, caused in part by the Trump administration's efforts to reduce the size of the federal government.
Over the past few years, the administration's policies have had significant negative impacts on the mental health and well-being of current and former federal employees. A survey, now closed for participants, was conducted to gather opinions about the impact of these changes on the mental health and overall well-being of federal employees. The survey results will be used for an upcoming story and remain anonymous.
One key area of concern is job insecurity and anxiety. Many federal employees have experienced anxiety and stress due to layoffs, firings, and the threat of workforce reductions associated with Trump-era policies such as downsizing government agencies. This has created a workplace environment where employees feel like they are "walking on eggshells," worrying about how much longer they can cope under the pressure.
In addition, the administration’s push to reduce the size of government led to increased workloads for remaining employees, contributing to burnout and low morale. Federal workers report that workplace morale has plummeted, with less opportunity for positive workplace interactions such as laughter.
Moreover, the Trump administration implemented budget cuts and staffing reductions affecting federal agencies focused on workplace and public mental health, such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). NIOSH lost a majority of its staff, and its budget was severely cut, undermining efforts to address mental health challenges and improve well-being in the healthcare workforce and federal workforce broadly.
The lack of federal support for addressing the national mental health crisis has indirect negative consequences for many, including federal employees facing mental health challenges. Federal budget policies under Trump abandoned prior commitments to addressing the national mental health crisis, including cuts that exacerbate existing challenges by reducing Medicaid and other support programs.
Federal employees have turned to personal coping strategies like art, music, exercise, or seeking quiet moments due to the increased workplace stress and uncertainty. Some employees remain committed to public service but feel underappreciated and stressed.
In summary, Trump administration policies to downsize and reshape the federal government have contributed to worsening mental health outcomes among federal employees by increasing job-related stressors and removing federal mental health resources critical for support.
For more information regarding recent changes in the federal government, please contact Anastasia Obis at anastasia.obis@ourwebsite or on Signal at (301) 830-2747. The survey results coverage will be published on the reporter's website. Please note that "Workforce Reimagined" is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.
- The survey conducted to gather opinions about the impact of the Trump administration's policies on federal workers' mental health and well-being revealed increased job insecurity and anxiety within the federal workforce.
- The push by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal government led to increased workloads for remaining employees, which contributed to burnout and low morale, worsening healthcare workforce and federal workforce mental health outcomes.
- Due to the increased workplace stress and uncertainty caused by the Trump administration's policies, many federal employees have turned to personal coping strategies like art, music, exercise, or quiet moments to navigate their challenging work environment.
