Beat Unemployment Depression in 10 Easy Steps!

Helen Holmes March 15, 2013

Job loss can be the worst thing that could happen to anybody especially in the tight economy. In fact, previous studies have linked depression to the rising unemployment rate. When people lose their job, they also lose a significant aspect of their well-being. If you’re one of the many folks who have been ‘laid off’, you may find yourself going through complex emotions – sadness, anger, frustration, self-pity, etc. And all these can lead to depression.

But this is the moment when you shouldn’t be depressed. Or else, you reduce the likelihood of finding a new job and a rewarding career. It isn’t going to be easy of course considering the fact that you are currently on the state of poor financial security. So here are 10 easy steps to help you out!

1. Take the opportunity to relax and unwind. You won’t be unemployed for the rest of your life. So take a breather and chill! The first thing to do would be to create a list of all the things you hated about your previous job – your arrogant boss, low salary, back-stabber friends, etc. Negative as they may sound, these things could actually make you feel a little ‘thankful’ of not being part of the employed world! Do the things you want but couldn’t do when you’re still employed. Maybe you can do a movie marathon, have a sumptuous meal at home, or have some chitchat with friends and relatives. Everyone needs to recharge!

2. Be inspired. Don’t ruin your mood by focusing on the negatives. Instead, find ways to motivate yourself and lift up your spirit. Watch inspirational videos, listen to experts’ tips and advice, or read a self-help book. The more inspired you are, the more likely you will find a greater job.

3. Improve your self-esteem. Losing a job could negatively impact your self-esteem. That’s natural because we humans get our self-esteem from our occupations, relationships, and everything else that matters to us. But by learning how to improve your self-esteem without having to depend on these things rather than your true self, you can actually feel better and develop resilience to difficult situations.

4. Find new hobbies. Employed people do only three things – eat, work and sleep. Being unemployed gives you a perfect chance to develop new hobbies that will make you feel better. This is also a great time to get back into shape! You don’t always need a gym to exercise. You can perform physical activities at home which will not cost you anything.

5. Be thrifty. Knowing that you are running out of funds can aggravate the depression associated with being unemployed. So make sure to cut the necessary expenses. Spend as little as possible. Instead of dining in an expensive restaurant, you may just want to do some shopping and cook your own meal at home. This way, you can save more money and at the same time, be able to choose healthier ingredients!

6. Be sociable. Isolating yourself can do you more harm than good. Friends and family can give you emotional support during ‘depressing’ times like this.

7. Sweat your frustration out. Exercising doesn’t just help you get in shape but can significantly improve your mood too! Whenever you feel like the whole world is going against you, get up and jog. You will be surprised of how you will feel afterwards.

8. Let not negative thoughts overwhelm you. You have to carefully watch your thoughts or else, they can hit back on you. Count on positive thinking. It can definitely help you deal with the frustrations and motivate you to move forward.

9. Prepare for your job search. When your mind and body are ready, it’s time that you find another job. You may want to take up some short courses to enhance your skills. This way, you can boost your confidence when applying for a new job. Read books that can help you succeed in interviews and eliminate your fears and anxiety.

10. Never lose hope. Being hopeful can do you many wonders. Never quit trying until you’ve found the right job. Being rejected is part of it. But you’ve got to hold on and hope for the best!

 

Dear Readers,

Have you ever experienced being fired out from your job? What things did you do to make yourself feel better? 

Share your idea’s by posting a comment below.