The ongoing government shutdown is significantly affecting the mental health of many Americans. As federal support dwindles, individuals and families are grappling with uncertainty, leading to increased anxiety and stress. According to Coraline Robinson, a licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist at Balance Treatment Center, “really the majority of the population is facing some sort of cut in subsidies in support from the federal government,” impacting essential services like SNAP benefits and affordable health insurance.
More than 42 million low-income Americans rely on SNAP benefits, which include assistance for approximately 16 million children. In Central California, the situation is particularly dire, with over 246,000 residents of Fresno County depending on food assistance programs. As SNAP benefits are set to expire soon, many food banks and local agencies are mobilizing to help those facing food insecurity.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Fresno has reported a noticeable increase in individuals seeking mental health support. Gordie Ochinero-Bermudez from NAMI Fresno stated, “They’re definitely having a lot of feelings, which I believe is okay to have a lot of feelings right now.” He emphasized that the community is currently very vulnerable, grappling with the emotional fallout from the shutdown.
Emotional Toll and Resources for Support
Mental health experts highlight that the uncertainty surrounding the shutdown is a significant trigger for stress and anxiety. “So that is when you really need to look at your behaviors,” Robinson advised. She stressed the importance of recognizing changes in behavior and seeking support to regain stability. “The biggest risk factor in mental health is not the symptom. It’s not the anxiety or even the situation or the depression,” Robinson elaborated. “It’s the feeling that you are the only one. We know that loneliness drives depression.”
Robinson encourages individuals to reach out for support, whether it be from friends, family, or mental health professionals. NAMI Fresno offers free support groups twice a week, providing a safe space for community members to share their experiences. “Everything we do for our community is free,” Ochinero-Bermudez noted, urging those in need to seek help. “If this is the time where you need to go, if it’s not NAMI Fresno, it could be somewhere else, but definitely go somewhere.”
Experts consistently remind the public that they are not alone in their struggles and emphasize the importance of seeking help without shame. The emotional impact of the government shutdown is profound, affecting not just financial stability but also mental well-being. As the situation evolves, community resources remain crucial for those navigating this challenging period.
