How To Cope With Unemployment & Job Loss
Being unemployed can be one of the more difficult experiences people go through. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, anger, fear, or depression, you are not alone. These are some of the common emotional responses to losing a job or being in a state of unemployment. First and foremost, I want you to know that you can actually come out of this part of your life stronger, more confident, and more resilient than ever before. Abrupt change is bound to leave you feeling out of sorts, and it may also leave you questioning your sense of purpose or self-esteem. Even if these feelings seem impossible to get past, I can assure you that it does get better. Grief is a natural response to losing a job, but I am here to give you the tools and techniques you need to not only get yourself back on track, but also to achieve a happier, healthier state of mind.
Ways To Recover From Job Loss
Help yourself cope with the stress, anger, or fear you might be feeling at this time.
- Understand That You Are Not Alone: For most, a job is much more than just a source of income. Your job or career may influence how you see yourself, as well as how you make sense of your purpose and meaning. If you feel as though you are losing your identity or sense of self, know that many people experience a similar heightened sense of uncertainty when faced with this type of life change.
- Reach Out: Although you may want to withdraw at this time, don’t forget that the people close to you in your life are an incredible resource right now. Whether it is a close friend, family member, or therapist, try to reach out to at least one person whom you consider close. Social contact may very much help alleviate some stress, and having someone who will really listen to you has the potential to work wonders.
- Exercise: It is true that exercise helps more than just your physical health. It also does wonders for your mental health, and therefore, may be more important now than ever before. The endorphins released during exercise can significantly improve your mood, as well as alleviate the anxiety, stress, or tension that you may be feeling. If during exercise you catch yourself focusing on your problems or concerns, try shifting your focus to the pure physicality of the action you are doing, and the sensations happening in your body.
- Focus On Your Health: Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night, as sleep heavily impacts your mood, energy and productivity. At the same time, pay attention to what foods you are eating. Minimize your sugar and caffeine intake, as they can negatively affect your mood as well as increase more extreme energy crashes throughout the day. Try to minimize alcohol intake as well, as large amounts can intensify your worries and anxieties, making your feelings more extreme than need be.
- Focus On The Things You Can Control: Pick up a new hobby, begin daily meditation, or start listing the good aspects of your life to help train your brain to be more positive and mindful. Beginning to incorporate any of these into your new routine can be the first steps towards an enhanced sense of well-being.
Additional Help Coping With Unemployment Or Job Loss
I am happy to offer these tips to help you make sense of these feelings and recover on your own. However, if you are interested in having someone to speak to regularly about how to navigate this challenging period of time, I would love to hear from you. It is my mission to make sure that you feel safe and comfortable from the first moment we meet. In our introductory appointment, I will begin to assess your needs and we can decide whether or not we are a good match. I understand the weight of your decision to begin therapy, and I want to ensure that you have a successful experience. Please feel free to contact me by phone at (310) 892-2572 or send me an email at DrKellyMothner@gmail.com.