Elon Musk recently introduced a weekly email to the federal workforce, asking, “What did you do last week?” This new practice has sparked mixed reactions, with some employees viewing it as a light-hearted check-in, while others see it as intrusive and stressful.
During a Cabinet meeting, Musk humorously referred to these emails as a “pulse check,” jokingly questioning if everyone has “a pulse and two neurons.” However, many mental health professionals, particularly those from the Veterans Health Administration, are less amused. They describe the emails as a form of psychological pressure, stating that it feels like a coercive tactic aimed at unsettling employees.
One psychologist expressed concern, saying, “We feel like we’re being bullied to prove our worth.” At the VA, employees already face extensive monitoring, tracking their activities down to the smallest details. Now, they worry about these additional demands just as the weekend approaches. The constant reminders to report accomplishments add to their stress, especially with looming layoffs affecting morale.
Musk’s emails are sent from an official government address, often during evenings or weekends. This raises apprehension among workers, who feel compelled to respond or risk losing their jobs, as hinted by Musk in his statements. President Trump has echoed these sentiments, suggesting that non-responsive employees might be at risk.
Without substantial evidence, both Musk and Trump have claimed that there may be workers who don’t actually exist or who have left their positions. This speculation only fuels anxiety among those who are trying to manage their workload while addressing the needs of veterans. Workers express frustration that instead of focusing on providing care, they must reassure their patients about their futures while juggling these pressure-filled emails.
For some employees, the stress has become overwhelming, leading to feelings of irritability and anxiety at home. One psychiatrist shared her experience of receiving the email while spending time with family, saying, “It felt invasive during my off time.” She noted that paranoia is creeping into the workplace, making colleagues cautious with their words, fearing they are being watched by Musk and his team.
This type of nosiness is uncommon in traditional workplaces, where off-hours communication typically signals an emergency. Mental health professionals worry that a simple request to report accomplishments might signify a larger, more troubling trend regarding workforce evaluations and job security.
Recent announcements from the Department of Veterans Affairs highlight plans for significant layoffs as part of efforts to streamline operations. Many mental health workers are uncertain about their job security and contemplate leaving government service, even though they are dedicated to helping veterans. They often feel called to serve those who have defended the country, and the thought of abandoning their posts is difficult.
Despite the uncertainty and pressure, these professionals are committed to their roles. They find meaning in the challenging work they do, wishing to continue offering support to veterans in need. The pressure from management and the stress of the current work climate pose ongoing challenges, but many hope for a way forward that prioritizes the well-being of both employees and those they serve.
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