DAVENPORT, Iowa — At six weeks in, this is the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. It can have an impact on mental health for those most affected.

In the last shutdown in 2018, mental health took a hit among furloughed federal workers. A Weber State University study in Utah found 72% of surveyed workers had high anxiety or stress during the shutdown. Financial worries, political pressure, and uncertainty all contributed.

Furloughed workers didn't stop being stressed after the shutdown ended. They reported worse morale at work and anxiety about the next possible shutdown.

Richard Whitaker, CEO of Vera French Community Mental Health Center, has seen that stress and depression.

"We've seen a steady increase since the summer," Whitaker said.

Federal workers are missing payche

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