After the Lay Off: Tips for Emotional Survival

With the nation experiencing one of the most rapid contractions of the economy since the 1930’s, many people are experiencing the grim reality of sudden unemployment. With extreme job hemorrhaging in the manufacturing, financial and retail sectors, entire communities that once relied on these jobs for metropolitan stability are becoming poverty zones.

“The rapid pace of the decline is breathtaking,” said John Moore, Ph.D., CEO of 2nd Story Consultants in Chicago, a firm that specializes in providing coaching and counseling services to Fortune 500 executives. “The aggressive downward trajectory suggests something catastrophic may have happened to the global economy. Until this financial storm eases, everyone should prepare for the worst.”

Aside from the usual expert advice suggesting that people put money aside in case they are given a pink slip, And for those who are already laid off? Moore suggests people think about creating an emotional survival plan. “There is a whole emotional element to job loss that is often not discussed. When a person loses his or her job – they often lose their identity.”
Here are 3 tips for emotional survival according to Moore.

1. Create a daily a daily schedule
This means waking up at the same time and going to bed at the same time. Looking for work can often be a full-time job in itself. A schedule that allows time for job searching can help structure your day emotionally and mentally while also helping you to keep your sanity. A daily schedule will also allow you to experience some type of normalcy and predictability with your day.

2. Try to make exercise part of your daily routine
Unemployment often equals a sedentary existence of searching for jobs online or during non-search periods, watching T.V. Try to schedule in at least thirty minutes of exercise. This could mean taking a walk around the neighborhood or going to your local community center to use the treadmill. If you are married or have kids, be sure to include them in your outdoor activities. The point is to get out of the house at least once a day. If you

3. Be mindful of your mood
As you work through the reality of a job loss, try to remember that what has happened is not your fault. Realize that there are going to be times when you feel down and that this is a normal reaction to an extremely difficult situation. If however you notice that you are beginning to experience some of the more classic signs of depression, such as feeling lethargic, increased irritability, or hopeless, it may be time to seek out professional help.

Summary
If your employer cuts deep and hard, you may be laid off despite your best efforts. Think through what you'll do next. Along with having a financial survival plan, you should also develop an emotional one.

Resources: 2nd Story Consultants - http://www.mychicagotherapist.com

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