Shutdown impacting federal workers psychologically

WASHINGTON (FOX 5 DC) - Federal workers on furlough are flocking to career fairs across the area, but one university hosted a different type of fair.

The University of Mary Washington welcomed federal workers for a free day of professional development and networking.

The focus was on feeding workers' mental health.

One of the goals of the event was to make sure federal workers on furlough are staying mentally fit amid this historic partial government shut down.

One furloughed worker, Anne Lloyd, drew herself and blacked out an article, only highlighting relative adjectives.

The art project was just one session at The University of Mary Washington's day for federal employees on furlough.

Nearly 100 federal workers came to the school's Stafford campus for the day-long event.

The event provided a reprieve for federal workers who spent the day as students in art, poetry, psychology, and relaxation classes.

Despite the diverse backgrounds of people attending the event, gratefulness was a constant and FOX 5 has learned that if the shutdown continues, the University may use this day for inspiration again.

"Every participant to a number has said thank you for creating this day for us," said Executive Director of Continuing and Professional Studies Kimberly Young.

We're told one participant who works for the state department received notice to return to work with pay -- good news for him and hopefully more will come for those here today.