10 Ways To Handle Unemployment Stress
10 Ways To Handle Unemployment Stress. Unemployment is a tough situation anyone can find themselves in. If you don’t have a regular source of income or a way to spend your time, you may start to feel anxious and adrift. However you feel, this is not the end of the world. Having a positive outlook on things, and actively searching for new jobs, you can make it through your period of unemployment with few scratches.
1. Stay In Touch With Loved Ones
It’s important to maintain a support structure during this difficult time. Although you may feel embarrassed to tell your friends and family about your unemployment, they will likely provide you encouragement and support while you search for a new job. They may also be able to help you find a new job. Make a point of getting lunch or dinner with a friend at least once a week.
2. Wake Up Early
Without a set routine, you may be tempted to sleep in and you may also be tempted to go to bed later and later, which may interfere with your ability to return to a normal sleep schedule. Resist this temptation. Waking up early, around the same time you woke up during your previous employment will help you to stay in a healthy routine and avoid the possibility of depression.
3. Exercise Daily
Exercise is one of the best stress relievers. Get at least thirty minutes of exercise every day. If you can engage in social exercise activities like group sports or a bike team, even better. You’ll get the benefits of exercise and the benefits of social interaction in one activity.
4. Practice Stress Reduction Techniques
Meditation, yoga, or prayer are effective ways to combat stress. If you have stress reduction techniques that have worked for you in the past, use those. Otherwise, don’t be afraid to seek out new ways of coping with stress.
5. Reduce Alcohol And Other Drugs
While alcohol, cigarettes, and other drugs can provide temporary relief from stress, they tend to increase stress in the long-term. Alcohol is also a depressant, so you should avoid drinking too much during a time that you are feeling low already.
6. Normalize The Problem
When you watch the news you recognize that you are not alone. Many people are in the same boat. That doesn’t mean the boat is sinking, it only means that market economies like ours go through ups and downs. Usually a recession is followed by eight years of growth. If you are out of work, join the crowd. But also recognize that you will probably be back at work sooner than later.
7. Don’t Put Yourself Down
Self-criticism is a major burden during this time for you. Losing a job doesn’t make you a loser, it means that you are part of the work force that is always changing. Write down these negative put-down thoughts and challenge them with reality. For example, “I’m a loser” can be challenged with the fact that you got an education, you worked, you probably got good feedback on some things, you have friends who value you and you are trying to help yourself.
8. Learn New Skills
If you want to develop new skills, unemployment is a good time to consider going back to school. Think about what kind of jobs you want and choose a program that will give you the skills you need to get hired. You can also look for certificate programs or specialized training conferences that are shorter-term and will help hone your skills and make you an attractive candidate.
9. Be Flexible
Depending on your financial situation, you may need to accept jobs that aren’t your dream job. At the beginning of your job search, it’s OK to apply only for jobs that you really want. If a few months go by and you’re still unemployed, you should consider taking a job that isn’t exactly what you’re looking for.
10. Ask For Help
Don’t wait until you’re desperate to seek help. Instead, reach out for help when you first start to feel depressed or anxious about your situation.If you feel overwhelmed by your situation, reach out to friends or family for help. If you’d rather talk to someone who doesn’t know you, you can find a therapist in your area.
