from the American Counseling Association
sponsored by the ACA Foundation

It isn't news that our nation's economy currently has many problems, problems that are resulting in rising unemployment rates in most parts of the nation.

Losing a job is a traumatic experience, one that can affect each of us in different ways and to different degrees. Being laid off from a company where you've been a long-time employee and viewed your role as vital certainly increases your sense of loss. Other factors, such as your age, education, skills, the local job market and your family's need for that paycheck, can also increase stress levels.

Increased and prolonged stress can easily put your physical and mental well-being at risk. That's why it's important to do all you can to cope with job loss if it does occur.

In may ways, losing a job is similar to the sense of loss one experiences when a loved one dies or an important relationship ends. There's often a shock and then denial that this is happening to you.

What follows is often anger, anger that can be damaging if it leaves you bitter and easily irritated, affecting your relationships with friends and family. Or you may try, unrealistically, to get back that job that no longer exists, and you can easily experience depression and sadness as you question your worth and abilities.

Accepting that such emotional reactions are likely, and often necessary in order for you to move on, can enable you to get through them more quickly and less painfully. When you couple that acceptance with an effort to continue living a normal life, it makes moving on much easier.

After a job loss, you should avoid major life changes that will increase stress levels. Strive to maintain a normal schedule, to eat healthfully, exercise regularly and maintain normal involvement with family and friends.

Understand that job loss can initially be frightening, but it can also be an opportunity for new beginnings. Network with friends and colleagues, and stay open to new possibilities and experiences.

Also take advantage of available help. Your employer may be providing employee assistance or outplacement counseling. Or you may seek a private counselor specializing in unemployment issues and career counseling.

Losing a job is a difficult situation, but it's not the end of the world. Don't let the stress it can bring overwhelm your life.

"The Counseling Corner" is provided as a public service by the American Counseling Association, the nation's largest organization of counseling professionals. Learn more about the counseling profession at the ACA web site, www.counseling.org.