Are You Losing Your Job? Here Are Some Helpful Tips to Cope with the Anxiety

You didn’t see this coming. You heard talks of potential layoffs, but you honestly didn’t think that you’d be one of the unlucky ones.

This is your livelihood we’re talking about. No matter if you absolutely loved your job or if it was just a job for you, it’s what helped pay the bills. It’s what provided you and your family the comfort and security for making ends meet.

Where are you supposed to go from here? What are you supposed to do now?

This can be easier said than done. But try not to stress. It will all work out in the end. Here are some helpful tips for handling any anxiety about losing a job.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

A big life change such as a loss of a job can bring on a lot of different feelings. You may even be going through a grieving process in a way. No matter what type of grief you’re going through, there isn’t a right or a wrong way to do it. One of the best ways to help you overcome all of those different thoughts and emotions that are weighing you down is to acknowledge all of those feelings. This is one of the only ways that you can process everything and move again forward over time.

Lean on Loved Ones

After losing a job, you may want to self-isolate. Try not to do this as this can lead to worsening signs and symptoms. Instead, reach out to friends and family for support and guidance during this time. Let them know what you need from them. You may need a shoulder to cry on, someone to listen to you, or you may be seeking advice and reassurance. They’re not going to judge you for losing your job and you shouldn’t judge yourself for that happening either. Everything happens for a reason.

Move Your Body

While you have some downtime, try making yourself a priority again. Exercise is a proven way to naturally reduce one’s stress and improve one’s overall mood. It’s a positive activity for your overall mental health and wellness. Exercise doesn’t just mean running for miles on miles or hitting up the gym for multiple hours during your day. You can find activities to move your body in ways that you actually enjoy. This can include activities like practicing yoga in the comfort of your own home, taking a walk around your neighborhood, or riding your bike with a friend. Find things that you enjoy and get after it.

Do the Things You Love

Doing activities you enjoy can extend beyond just moving your body. You can help take your mind off of your current job situation by channeling your energy into activities that you enjoy. If you have a hobby that you’re interested in, now you have the time to practice that hobby. You never know what could happen when you’re able to channel your energy into something that you’re passionate about. Use this time to hang out with people that you feel connected to and supported by as well.

Seek Additional Support

While there are lifestyle changes that you can make on your own end to help with the anxiety that you may be experiencing, there isn’t a replacement for seeking additional support. A trained and licensed mental health professional can help you dive deeper into these thoughts and feelings that you’re experiencing during this time. They’ll even be able to work with you on helping you grieve and move forward in your life again. Although this may be a significant life change, with the right support and techniques it is possible to get your anxiety under control. Contact me today to set up a consultation.