Government Shutdown Resources
Dear readers,
As you may have heard, the federal government shut down on October 1. This shutdown will continue until both chambers of Congress, the House of Representatives and Senate, pass funding legislation and it is signed into law.
Government shutdowns impact many people in different ways. Federal employees may be placed on unpaid leave, work without pay, or even lose their positions. We know that this can bring up a lot of uncertainty and anxiety for you, your loved ones, and your greater community. All of us here at Disability Rights Tennessee (DRT) want you to know that we are here as a support at this time.
While the federal government shutdown has caused disruption in some areas, DRT’s work continues without interruption. DRT will continue to track developments closely and share updates that may affect Tennesseans living with disabilities and/or mental illness. We’re also in regular contact with our national and state partners, including the National Disability Rights Network.
We have two resource guides to share with you from partners:
- Disability Rights Florida: “What the Government Shutdown Means for People with Disabilities”
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): “Shutdown Resources”
As this shutdown continues, DRT is here for you and your loved ones. If you or someone you know needs support, our Resource & Referral team is here to help through our Get Help line. You can reach out by email, website, and voice call 24/7.
Voice Call: 1-800-342-1660
Email: GetHelp@DisabilityRightsTN.org
Online: www.DisabilityRightsTN.org/Get-Help/
Take care,
Lee Sherwood
Director of Community Relations and Development
Disability Rights Tennessee
From a DRT blog on 7/31/25, read here.
You might remember from your school days that Congress controls the money, this is often called the “power of the purse.” That means that the President makes requests, but Congress decides how that money is spent.
The President sends a budget request to Congress. This shows what the President and the Administration think should be funded and how much should go to each program. You can view that here.
Congress reviews the request and begins a process called “appropriations” where lawmakers in the House and Senate suggest changes and debate what to fund. Many of the appropriations committees will discuss funding that could impact people living with disabilities and/or mental illness.
Typically, both chambers of Congress must agree on a final budget and the president must approve it before the start of the new fiscal year on October 1.
As of October 1, 2025 the federal government entered a shutdown due to the House and Senate not passing a funding bill.
Times of uncertainty can take a toll on your mental and emotional wellbeing. It’s normal to feel anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed. Here are a few ways to care for yourself and your loved ones during this time:
- Acknowledge your feelings: It’s okay to feel worried or frustrated. Naming your emotions can help you process them.
- Stay connected: Reach out to friends, family, or support networks — talking to someone you trust can reduce stress.
- Keep routines where you can: Regular sleep, meals, and activity can help maintain a sense of stability.
- Take breaks from the news: Staying informed is important, but constant updates can increase anxiety. Balance news consumption with other activities that calm you.
- Seek support if needed: If you notice persistent feelings of anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm, consider reaching out to a counselor, mental health professional, or crisis line.
Remember, caring for yourself is not just important for you — it helps you show up for others in your life too.