#USA #Washington D.C. #mental health support #Mind the Movement #political workers

Mind the Movement: Supporting the Mental Health of Political Workers

In an environment where the news cycle is constant and social media is ever-present, those working on the front lines of political campaigns and government often find themselves overwhelmed. As the demands of their work intensify, many experience severe mental health struggles ranging from anxiety to depression.

The Launch of Mind the Movement
On November 12, 2025, Mind the Movement, a new nonprofit organization, made its debut with the mission of providing mental health support to dedicated individuals in these high-stress environments. This initiative emerged from a sobering reality highlighted in the 2024 Campaign Staff Mental Health Report, which revealed alarming statistics about the mental health of campaign staffers. During the 2024 election cycle, 74% of campaign staff reported experiencing depression, while a staggering 91% dealt with anxiety, leaving 12% to contemplate self-harm.

Founder and Executive Director Ashley Williams articulated the challenges unique to these workers: "Working on a campaign is an amazing experience. But it's also exhausting and stressful... Federal workers, organizers, and campaign staff aren't getting mental health support because they can't afford it."

Pilot Program in Action
Mind the Movement's first phase will focus on providing financial assistance to mental health services for those who have lost their jobs or are struggling financially. The initiative begins with a pilot program targeting three states: Virginia, Arizona, and Michigan. In its initial rollout, 100 workers in Virginia will receive subsidies of up to $1,400 to cover 10 to 12 therapy sessions with approved mental health providers. This direct support aims to make mental health care affordable and accessible.

Williams also noted that federal workers in the DC metro area who have recently lost their jobs can apply for an emergency mental health subsidy, further broadening the initiative’s reach.

Inspiration Behind the Initiative
Ashley’s motivation for creating Mind the Movement stemmed from research highlighting similar support systems in other sectors. Notably, organizations like Backline and Sweet Relief serve the music industry, while the Flight Attendants Therapy Fund aids flight attendants facing similar challenges. Williams hopes to pave the way for mental health care to be regarded as a standard practice rather than a luxury.

Advisory Council member Kris Banks emphasized the values these workers embody: "Campaign staff and grassroots organizers usually step into this work because of their values. They care deeply about the issues and are often willing to accept lower pay and fewer benefits to help create change. That tradeoff often means they don't have the resources or coverage to access mental health support."

A Nonpartisan Approach
Mind the Movement's initiative highlights its nonpartisan commitment to mental health support, offering assistance regardless of political affiliation. Advisory council member Natasha Latzman pointedly remarked, "Mind the Movement is for everyone doing this work. Your well-being matters."

This inclusive approach reflects an understanding that the stressors associated with political engagement affect everyone involved at any level. As the nonprofit progresses, it will focus on expanding to other states and increasing its support framework.

For individuals who qualify, applications will be accepted from federal employees let go in 2025, those who have worked on political campaigns, and community organizers lacking mental health insurance coverage.

Get Involved
Mind the Movement encourages those interested in learning more or contributing to their cause to visit their website to apply for subsidies or donate for program expansion. The organization envisions a future where mental health care is not just supplementary but integrated into the fabric of all sectors, especially those that demand so much from individuals working tirelessly for change.

Mind the Movement is poised to make a difference for many struggling in silence, proving that, indeed, helping people matters as much as the work they do.