Job Loss and Depression

Many people have depression in the United States every day.  That feeling of despair can escalate even more at this time of year when everyone else seems to be in a cheery mood celebrating the Holidays with friends and family.  Activities that once brought joy may make a jobless person feel like hibernating until the season is over.  Being aware of the signs can help turn some of these feelings around or at least lend to understanding that others who are walking the path of joblessness understand.   If you are a family member you may see some of these signs in your loved one and it is my hope that you will be an encouragement for hope.

Feelings of Guilt
Job loss can produce many aspects of guilt.  Whether or not the loss was merited or the result of office politics a person who has lost a job feels blame for the position they are in and also for the financial strain that it puts upon their family.  Family members can help by not casting blame through remarks or innuendos.  Encouragement for job search efforts will help keep a person with job loss on track to find a new position while hurtful remarks could cause them to fall into a pit of despair that is hard to come out of without help.  It is important to keep in touch with people who will be supportive and helpful.  The local Career Center should be a place where job tips, readiness seminars, and encouragement are available.


Feelings of Hopelessness
Job loss can make a person feel as if things will not get better no matter how much effort is put into a job search.  When someone who has experienced job loss has tried to get another job and seems to come up against a brick wall they can begin to lose hope.  There can come a feeling of disappointment in yourself and lack of self-worth.  Many people have unknowingly placed a large portion of their identity in their work or ability to provide.  Taking steps to improve your skills through a computer course or a trade school, or something as simple as getting your resume together can help you feel hopeful.  Something as simple as a family member taking a person with a job loss to see a movie or out to dinner can distract and cause a better outlook.

Feeling of Loss
The person with job loss may also feel unproductive and at a loss of direction for their life.  You get used to your job and the people you work with even if you don't like everything about it.  Job loss cuts you off from what you've known.  You once woke up in the morning with purpose and had a job to do and no matter how small or menial that job may have been it gave you a sense of accomplishment in your life.  Don't stop being productive as you search for a job.  Keep busy in pursuits that will help you toward your goal of employment.  Be willing for example to look at part-time jobs, at training courses or volunteer work.

I hope those who have never lost a job will at least begin to sense the major blow it is to lose a job and be willing to be a blessing to those around you.  I welcome those of you who have experienced job loss to express in the comments feelings you might have had during that time.