Unemployment & Job Loss Support
Handling Layoff Stress while Unemployed and Job Searching
How does one handle stress and emotional issues that come with job loss? Tips for preserving self-esteem & self-respect by staying positive during unemployment can help.
According to Job Hunting in the New Millennium, "Most everyone has to deal with unemployment or underemployment one or more times in their life. The ability to cope with new feelings like low self-esteem and maintaining your self-respect, can positively affect the outcomes of your job search." [page 5] One needs to know how to manage these reactions to job loss in order to get past them and begin moving in a new direction.
Seek Support from Family, Friends, and Past Co-Workers During Unemployment
- Request assistance where needed and accept support when it is offered. Other people can be a huge asset when looking for work.
- Put the word out for job leads, including asking others to keep alert for opportunities. Perhaps an acquaintance will know of an opening where they work.
- When necessary, vent frustrations with close friends and family who will be supportive and encouraging.
Preserve Self-Esteem After Layoff or Losing a Job
- Reflect on past positive achievements and accomplishments.
- Maintain a list of personal strengths and assets.
- Be sure to take time for rest and renewal to keep stress in control.
- Ask supportive people for uplifting input and support during the job search.
Deal with Unemployment Financial Problems or Issues
- Immediately evaluate expenditures, bills, and financial accounts for strengths and weaknesses. Make decisions about the budget.
- If needed, cut back spending on excesses, luxuries, and other non-essentials. Cancel any unnecessary memberships or optional services.
- In critical situations, speak to creditors right away to set up payment plans or locate programs in order to protect your credit standing. Many organizations today check personal credit as part of the job application process.
- If appropriate, look into social programs such as unemployment insurance, workers compensation, food assistance, or as relate to the situation. There may be government or community agencies that can be of help.
- Be careful about using credit to survive. Credit card bills can add up quickly.
Tips to Stay Upbeat During Job Searching
- Maintain a regular schedule and daily routine. Keeping "office hours" will help maintain a feeling of control and be personally empowering.
- Don't underestimate the strain a job change can take on your body and well being. It is valuable to get quality rest and exercise and eat a healthy diet. When possible, take the weekends off and have some fun.
- Try to remain positive.
Being turned down for a job at Montgomery Ward was one of many set backs which moved Ronald Reagan onto a path that eventually led to his becoming president of the United States of America. He wrote, in his book American Life: The Autobiography, "I've often wondered at how lives are shaped by what seem like small and inconsequential events, how an apparently random turn in the road can lead you a long way from where you intended to go -- and a long way from wherever you expected to go."
For more information on aspects of unemployment, looking for work, job searching, and career advice, consider these online resources: Monster.com and Yahoo Careers
For help once you land that new job, learn How to Get Raises and Promotions.
Other Articles of Possible Interest:
Sources:
Job Hunting in the New Millennium [WorkSource Washington Pamphlet]
American Life: The Autobiography by Ronald Reagan [Simon & Schuster, 1990]
