The U.S. State Department has taken an unusual step in response to the emotional fallout from Donald Trump’s recent election victory, reportedly offering therapy sessions to employees feeling distressed by the outcome. Described by one employee as a “cry session,” this initiative aims to provide a supportive environment for staff to express their feelings about the electoral shift.
According to inside sources, the State Department circulated an email inviting employees to a one-hour event focused on “managing stress during change.” The session was hosted by the department’s Employee Consultation Services within the Bureau of Medical Services, emphasizing the importance of coping strategies during turbulent times. Attendees were promised insights into effective stress management during these challenging transitions.
As the session took place last Friday, it was led by licensed clinical providers, with a similar event already scheduled for November 13. The internal communication underscored the idea that “change is a constant in our lives,” but it also pointed to the emotional challenges that often come with it. One official who commented on the atmosphere at the State Department remarked on the emotional intensity present, likening it to a college campus’s focus on feelings rather than on the department’s primary function of promoting U.S. interests.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time the department has responded to employees’ emotional needs; an earlier incident in 2023 had the department offering counseling following a mishap where incorrect pronouns were assigned in emails. This prior event, combined with the current situation, has sparked various opinions about the department’s handling of sensitive issues. There are claims that the workforce feels increasingly polarized, with allegations that many staff members are partisan Democrats struggling to adapt to a Trump administration.
The discussions within the department reflect broader tensions regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which the incoming administration plans to overhaul significantly. Despite the emotional responses within the ranks, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the importance of diversity, citing it as a crucial strength for the U.S. on the global stage. However, reactions to the incoming administration’s planned changes indicate a challenging road ahead as the department aims to navigate the emotional landscape created by these political shifts.
Reports have emerged indicating that the State Department has dealt with discrimination allegations related to promotions, particularly affecting male employees. As the new administration prepares to take office, the restructuring of programs associated with DEI initiatives has become a focal point of concern among staff.
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