How to Cope With Sudden Job Loss Effectively

Coping with a sudden job loss can be emotionally, physically, and mentally stressful.  It’s certainly not uncommon to experience anger, fear, depression, self-pity, and vengeful thoughts after losing your job unexpectedly.  Had you known a year ago that you would be in this predicament; you could have made other provisions in advance.  Nevertheless, there is hope...you can survive if you take effective measures in coping with your loss. Here are some great tips for coping with job loss.

Release your feelings

1.

No doubt, you will go through several emotions after losing your job, and that’s normal.  Don’t let pride prevent you from expressing your true feelings.  If you feel like crying, then let it go.  First, you felt angry because you got a pink slip and now you are fearful because you don’t know how you are going to meet your expenses.  Again, it’s perfectly normal to get angry and fearful after a job loss.

Inquire about company benefits

2. After you pull yourself together, be sure to check with your Human Resources department to find out how you are eligible to continue your health insurance benefits through COBRA if you want and other company benefits that you are eligible for.

Seek emotional support

3. Even though it’s normal to experience emotional trauma after a job loss, you may need to seek assistance from a support group or licensed counselor to help you get through your ordeal.

File for unemployment benefits

4.  You should file for your unemployment benefits immediately after your last day of work. This is important because it will take at least two weeks before you get your first check.  And don’t be discouraged by the long lines of other individuals who will also be filing for unemployment benefits.  Expect to be there at least 4 to 6 hours.

Budget your finances

5. Bear in mind that you will have less money after losing your job even if you file for unemployment insurance…so make sure you budget your funds wisely.  You should focus on taking care of your basic necessities first and everything else will have to wait until you are financially able to afford them.

Seek new job opportunities

6. Don’t wait until your unemployment runs out to look for new job opportunities, but you should look for something as often as possible.  Keep in mind that the job market is very competitive today and you can’t afford to slack off in your job search.

Learn a new skill

7. In the meantime, why not learn a new skill while you are unemployed? Especially if your current skills are not in demand.   You can use this time to learn a new skill or enhance your current skills. You can take classes on-line in the convenience of your home, or you could opt to attend classes at a school of your choice.  If you decide on a career change make sure that there is a market demand for it.

Tips:

*update your resume

*do social networking

Warnings:

*leave gracefully

*keep your anger under control

*never try to retaliate against your co-workers, supervisor, manager, or anyone that you feel is responsible for your termination