“We are sorry, we didn’t want it to end this way.”

These words, though they have a gentle ring to them, will make you feel more than just helpless if you have been laid-off from work. Due to the economic slide caused by the coronavirus pandemic, many employers have had to let go of their well-deserving employees. And no matter how humanely your employer lets you off the hook, it is still going to kill you every single day until you get back on the road, as your job and the work you do, gives you a sense of purpose and identity—both under threat with lay offs. 

Being laid off will make you behave and experience pandemic life in a different way. When you are unemployed—forced to lock yourself up at home - cannot go out for job searches - get no positive replies for the ones you have applied to - are running out of your savings - have no idea about what the future holds for you—every little thing will make you feel even more worthless, hopeless, and helpless and cause you mental trauma for a long time to come.  

How can you fight these feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness then? Here are a few Dont’s that will help you cope up with  the  intermittent unemployment;

1. Don’t blame yourself: You have been laid-off and not fired. It is important for you to understand the circumstances under which your employer has taken this action. All these changes, even though they might turn out to be negative for you are because of the pandemic and not because of your skills or YOU! Don’t blame yourself and quit on self-pity as these emotions will only deepen the sense of hopelessness.
2. Don’t isolate yourself emotionally and socially: When you get hit by the negativity of it all, you want to stay alone and mull over it thinking  it will bring you peace. But on the contrary, it makes you feel lonely and instils feelings of being incompetent and worthless. Gradually you become used to the pattern and tend to cut yourself from your loved ones and friends fearing embarrassing questions. Strong tip: Don’t feel ashamed and stay connected with your family and friends as this will not only help you to calm your nerves but also help in building strong networks for the future. Let them know that you are looking out for work so that they can assist you.
3. Don’t lose what you have: With the job loss, you might face a lot of financial issues. It is time for you to plan a tight budget for the next couple of months. Not just money but try and practice your skills as much as you can. In fact try and add on new skills to your already existing skill set.
4. Don’t ignore your health: Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, low self-esteem, loss of confidence that accompanies a job loss, might make you loosen your grip on your own health. It is crucial for you to take care of your health because when you face difficulties just sulking might seem easier than cooking your comfort food. The over-thinking might also affect your sleeping patterns, ultimately affecting your health in a way you wouldn’t ideally want it to. 

Understand that losing your job is not a small issue and talking your heart out in front of a professional isn’t a controversial deal either. Always acknowledge help!