Whether you lost your job during the Covid-19 era or more recently, getting laid off deals the victim a big blow.
For many, a job not only offers a source of income but also a sense of purpose. It’s the reason why you get up early each morning to toil. So when you lose employment, it’s normal to feel like your life has been turned completely upside down.
If you’re reading this because you lost your job or know someone who did, there are a couple of strategies that can help you cope mentally.
Acknowledge the Loss and Grieve
Some people try to hide their true feelings after losing their job because they feel humiliated or embarrassed.
However, it’s important to acknowledge all the emotions you’re experiencing. In fact, it’s totally acceptable to grieve. Remember, you’re not only losing your employment. You’re also losing your identity, a source of income, the camaraderie of colleagues and so much more. As such, grief is a natural reaction to employment loss.
So give yourself a day, two days, a week – or however much time you feel you need – to think about your losses and identify the resulting emotions. Are you feeling angry, ashamed or anxious? I get that labeling these feelings won’t improve your current situation. But as research shows, it helps to suppress stress.
Stick to a Routine
One thing about having a job is that it also gives your life a bit of structure. You know exactly when to wake up so you can be punctual for your job. Similarly, you know the specific time to clock out and head home to rest. So when you get laid off, it can be difficult to maintain a similar structure in your life.
However, it’s important to come up with a new routine and follow it to the letter. Once you’re past the grieving stage, create a list of meaningful things that you’ll do every day. Revamp your resume, log into job boards and apply for a couple, go for a run, make your family dinner among others.
Setting out to do things and doing them successfully makes you feel productive. Getting those simple tasks done may seem trivial but it actually gives your life a new meaning.
Stay in Touch
It’s no secret that individuals who lose employment prefer to self-isolate and stay by themselves. This is particularly because it strips away the support and camaraderie that you’d get at your workplace. To add to this, there’s a level of stigma associated with unemployment.
As tempting as it is to retreat and keep to yourself, this isn’t the best way to go about this. Instead, reach out to close friends and family for support. Express how you’re feeling and seek advice on how to cope. Perhaps, one of your friends has lost their job before and managed to bounce back.
If you don’t feel comfortable sharing your emotions with either family or friends, consult a mental health professional. You could also start getting involved in community events and volunteer groups. Reaching out makes you feel connected and valued. This not only staves off stress but it also improves your confidence and self-esteem.
Conclusion
Although losing a job can feel like the end of the world, it’s not. It’s possible to bounce back and get a new job or start your own business. Sure, this might not happen overnight. But, it’s a possible outcome. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10)
