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DOGE Job Cuts Hit Federal Workers Finances and Mental Health

A drawing of a man in black and white covering his face with his hands. Behind him is a glowing red computer screen with windows. On the top left, the window shows Elon Musk with a chainsaw. The center window tells the man his employment has been terminated. The window on the bottom right shows a fork. The last window on the bottom left reads, "Employee of the Year 2024."
(Oona Zenda/窪蹋勛圖厙 News)

LISTEN: 窪蹋勛圖厙 News correspondent Rachana Pradhan spoke with federal employees who say mass government layoffs are affecting their mental health. She appeared on WAMUs Health Hub segment on April 2.


Federal workers are feeling demoralized and anxious as the Department of Government Efficiency slashes of of . Federal employment used to carry the promise of job security and an opportunity to serve the nation. But in recent weeks, uncertainty may be the most defining characteristic of being a federal worker. The stress is felt especially in Washington, D.C., where work for the federal government.

Losing a job . Being fired can cause anxiety, depression, digestive issues, and heart disease. For some, it could increase the risk of suicide. Many workers who lost their job with the federal government face these pressures without their health insurance to seek counseling and other treatment.

窪蹋勛圖厙 News correspondent Rachana Pradhan and senior correspondent Aneri Pattani reported onthe impact these firings have had on mental health.

Pradhan appeared on WAMUs Health Hub on April 2.

窪蹋勛圖厙 News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about .

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