By: @ericabassotherapy
Experiencing a layoff at your workplace or losing your job can be extremely stressful. It's normal to feel a range of emotions during such times. Job loss or insecurity can threaten components of psychological well-being, such as one’s financial health and identity, and leave individuals feeling vulnerable and anxious. Given the ongoing uncertainty in many career fields today, it's crucial to support individuals during a job loss or insecurity to ensure they can navigate the difficult emotions and challenges that arise.
Research has shown that unemployment is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and loss of life satisfaction, amongst several other negative outcomes. Due to the continued uncertainty in many career fields today, it has never been more important to provide support to individuals during job loss or insecurity. Let’s discuss ways to navigate.
Plan Early, If You Can
While it would be ideal to receive advance notice of a layoff, the reality is that this is often not the case for many today. However, you can always take control of your financial health by prioritizing it. This may involve learning how to manage your finances more effectively or ensuring that you have met your emergency savings goal. Although a layoff is not within your control, you can take charge of the money you do have, which can provide a sense of security.
Create a Plan and Develop New Skills
It's important to stay engaged in networking and continuously learning new skills that are relevant to your field. Nobody is perfect in their career and there will always be room for growth. By expanding your skillset, you'll gain confidence and maintain a realistic perspective on your professional journey. In case you get laid off, make sure to utilize resources provided by your employer, such as career coaches or recruiters.
Find Identity Outside of Your Job Title
Our work plays a significant role in forming our identity. However, what happens when we lose our job? It is essential to have a well-rounded personality and not rely solely on our job for self-esteem. To maintain a healthy and positive self-image, we should explore and cultivate other aspects of your identity - like the other roles you play in life, your values, what you care about in the world.
Stick to Healthy Lifestyle Routines
Our job provides structure in our days and weeks. Our routines create a sense of
normalcy and allow us to know what to expect, which in turn can generate feelings of security. Implementing healthy habits whether you have a job currently or not can help you stay healthy and grounded.
Connect with Community
Our work provides us not only purpose and identity but also socialization, which is important for all humans. Strong social connections have been shown to prevent poor physical and mental health outcomes. If you find yourself lacking in social support, there are various ways to meet new people such as taking a class, joining a Meetup group, or pursuing a new hobby. Additionally, don't hesitate to reach out to loved ones who are already in your life for support.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0001879109000037
Erica Basso is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist practicing statewide in California. She helps guide women in overcoming anxiety, perfectionism, and relationship challenges. To learn more about working with her, visit www.ericabassotherapy.com.
