Coping with a Layoff

When a person’s job ends involuntarily due to budget cuts it is normal to feel a sense of loss and the need to take some time to begin to heal. At least temporarily, you may have lost many things important to you including your daily work; your work associations; a structure for your days; financial security and status, etc. Even though the job loss is due to budget cuts and is not your fault, it is common to feel some loss of self esteem, and think that somehow you have failed. It can be hard to tell your friends and family.

Job loss can trigger the five stages of the grieving process which may include denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance.  The healing process is as unique as the individual, so you may experience all stages while others may skip several.  The key is to allow yourself to go through the process. 

Remember to:

• Give yourself time to adjust
• Don't be ashamed
• Tell your family and friends as soon as possible
• Keep the lines of communication open
• Think of the job loss as a temporary setback
• Avoid negative people and ways of thinking 

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