President Donald J. Trump‘s stunning landslide election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris has sparked a mental health crisis at the U.S. State Department. On Friday, the agency organized an in-house therapy session for employees who feel unable to cope with the changing political environment and Trump’s return to the White House.
“Managing stress during change,” reads a State Department email message announcing the therapy session to agency employees. During the one-hour session, attendees were encouraged to express their unfiltered, emotional reaction to the presidential election and Trump’s victory. The Bureau of Medical Services was responsible for organizing the sessions.
“Change is a constant in our lives, but it can often bring about stress and uncertainty,” the State Department email reads, adding: “Join us for an insightful webinar where we delve into effective stress management techniques to help you navigate these challenging times. This session will provide tips and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining your well-being.”
Meanwhile, other bureaus within the State Department organized internal meetings and sessions to discuss the future of their employment and mission under the new Trump presidency. The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs had employees meet with its assistant secretary and acting undersecretary for political affairs, John Bass. Most of these internal meetings appear to be attempts to tamp down employee panic, or spaces for employees to vent their fears.
According to the State Department email regarding the employee therapy sessions, there will be another agency-wide event on November 13.
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