Resources
The siege of the Capitol was a harrowing experience for those who serve the institution of Congress. On top of the normal stressors of the job, the added stress of having your life put at risk is deeply traumatic and lasting. It is completely expected and healthy for staff to have stress and trauma symptoms.
For immediate Mental Health support
Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
Text HOME to 741741
Call 1-800-273-8255 to be connected to a local crisis center, 24/7.
Call 1-800-273-8255, text 838255, or chat online
The Senate Employee Assistance Program and the House Office of Employee Assistance have many resources for supporting health and well being, including counseling, LifeCare, mindfulness apps, and online/recorded training
Longer-term mental health support
From the House, the Office of Employee Assistance has provided free and confidential resources to staff (must be logged into HouseNet for access).
Congressional Management Foundation maintains an updated Crisis Preparation and Response center with resources for all staff, including managers on supporting front-line staff in a crisis.
SAMSHA’s tip sheet on coping with grief after an incident of community violence
Mental health resources for the African-American community
Provider referrals through the Black Mental Health Alliance and the American Association of Hispanic Psychiatry
Resource to find therapists of color
Mental Health America’s Racial Trauma page
Therapy for Latinx
Mental health first aid for suicidal thoughts and behaviors
The link between drugs and suicide
Know the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Knowing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (or being able to recognize them in a colleague) is the first step toward making sure that you or the people around you get the support you need. Here are some common short- to long-term symptoms to be on the watch for, from the National Institute of Mental Health:
Worrying a lot or feeling very anxious, sad, or fearful
Crying often
Having trouble thinking clearly
Having frightening thoughts or flashbacks, reliving the experience
Feeling angry, resentful, or irritable
Having nightmares or difficulty sleeping
Avoiding places or people that bring back disturbing memories and responses.
Becoming isolated from family and friends
For more information on symptoms and seeking support after a traumatic event, see NIMH’s page.Please know that normal work in a congressional office is oftentimes extremely stressful. If you weren’t directly involved with the January 6 events but are feeling these symptoms, please know that it’s okay: your feelings are valid, and you are as deserving of help as anyone else.
Resilience, safety and workplace resources
House CAO e-Dear Colleague re: Support for Processing January 6 Anniversary
“Building your resilience” resources from the American Psychological Association
A roadmap for adapting to life-changing situations, and emerging even stronger than before.
As part of the "Life in Congress" project, CMF and SHRM regularly conduct training programs on workplace topics.
Resources from the POPVOX Foundation and LegiDash
Tips and checklist from NASW and the POPVOX Foundation
Webinars
Managing Staff While Under Attack
hosted by Congressional Management Foundation featuring former Rep. Brian Baird, Ph.D. and former staffer Nicole Tisdale
Questions, comments, or particular resource needs?
Please feel free to reach out to info@popvox.org and we’ll be happy to help.