Unemployment, Depression & Anxiety

Unemployment : Overcoming the sense of loss

Losing a job has been proven to be almost as stressful as divorce or the death of a spouse. Because many of us identify ourselves with what we do for a living, being unemployed can cause us to become depressed as well as anxious. However, there are ways we can overcome these feelings.

Networking

Networking with people in your line of work and seeking the support of others are good ways to stay focused while looking for a job. Searching online for career advice and seeking out organizations in your field that can help with your employment search are good places to start.

Maintaining a Routine

Maintaining a routine while searching for a job will keep you motivated as well as keep you from becoming anxious or depressed. Calling potential employers and setting up interviews off-line while submitting your application and resume online for jobs that interest you can help you keep on a regular schedule with respect to your job search.

Financial Management

It's important to contact creditors immediately, so you can stay in control of your budget. By making it a priority to manage your finances, you can search for a job without feeling the worry and stress that can result from dwindling resources.

Maintaining your Health

Maintaining your health by eating right and exercising daily as well as getting your sleep at night will give you the extra edge you need to find a job and keep on track during your job search. Avoiding substances like alcohol and caffeine and making time for family activities are also important steps to take in keeping the momentum going.

Volunteering

Volunteering your services by using the skills you have to encourage and help others is a good way to avoid the depression and anxiety that can result from not keeping active. Just make sure volunteering doesn't interfere with your job-search activities.

See a Doctor if You have Any Signs of Depression or Anxiety

Staying positive is important when you're unemployed. Therefore, taking note of sleep problems as well as symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or stomach upset is important if you want to concentrate on staying healthy during your job search. Consult your doctor for help in alleviating any problem.

References

• Mood Letter: How to Survive Unemployment
• Psychology Today: Facing Unemployment-Ten Steps to Handling Your Unemployment Anxiety
• Medill Reports: Unemployment Blues: Men Tend to Say it Ain't So

Resources

• Mood Letter: Lifestyles for Good Mental Health
• International Journal of Epidemilogy: Unemployment Pre-Dates Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety...