Concerns of Federal Workers Amid Bureaucratic Reform
A number of current and former federal employees have shared their worries, including declining morale and thoughts of self-harm, with the Washington Post in the wake of the Trump administration’s push for changes in federal operations.
More than 30 individuals, both active and retired, described feelings of demoralization and fear as efforts ramped up to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives while seeking to cut costs and streamline federal agencies. Some voiced alarming thoughts, including at least two who mentioned contemplating suicide due to job security anxiety.
One case highlighted was that of Caitlyn Cross Barnett, a researcher at the Department of Health and Human Services. Her husband found her on a fire escape, where she expressed that she had struggled with depression for years. Although she had personal challenges, she indicated that her stress had intensified due to job insecurity. In a moment of despair, she noted, “it’s not enough to jump.”
On January 28, she received an unsettling email warning her that resigning or facing termination could be imminent, triggering fears about her prior role focused on health disparities.
Another former federal employee, Richard Midgett, who lost his IT job at Yellowstone National Park, recounted a moment of deep sorrow, finding himself sobbing in his car. He later spoke about overcoming suicidal thoughts, yet the job loss—a shock to his mental well-being—was unexpected. Midgett stressed that he had no prior mental health issues before this crisis.
The report indicates that roughly a third of those interviewed experienced job loss, while many others are grappling with fears of potential layoffs and reorganizations.
This conversation followed a series of significant changes announced in the federal workforce on January 21. A presidential order from Trump aims to eliminate DEI programs across federal agencies and contracts.
Once the order was signed, the U.S. Department of Personnel Management instructed federal agencies to place DEI personnel on administrative leave and remove related content from official websites. The plan includes targeting staff reductions for those involved in DEI functions. In February, the U.S. Government Efficiency Documents Office outlined a phased approach for disbanding DEI positions and reassessing employee records linked to past DEI-related work.
Reports suggest a historic pace of staff reductions, significantly impacting sectors like the U.S. International Development Agency and AmeriCorps, and halving the education sector.
Trump has previously labeled federal workers as “bent” and “fraudulent” in an August interview. Former budget director Russell Vought mentioned a desire to see bureaucrats “affected by trauma.” The administration, however, has denied any responsibility for the declining mental health among workers, attributing the issues to a “deep state” resistant to reform. A White House spokesperson emphasized that serving in a taxpayer-funded role isn’t an honor but a right.
