Do you know someone who has been recently laid off?
According to the US Department of Labor Statistics, the
unemployment rate for people age 16 and older was unchanged at 4.1 percent in
October 2024, but higher than a year earlier (3.8 percent). The rate has ranged
from 4.0 percent to 4.3 percent since May 2024 (www.bls.gov).
Losing a job can be one of the most stressful experiences a
person can go through and it’s no wonder the concern among psychological
experts has increased these past few months. With unemployment rates expected
to rise because of the changes taking place in the federal government, mental
health is a growing concern for working adults in the United States.
If someone you know has recently been laid
off, your support can mean the difference between maintaining a healthy mental state.
Here are some ways to offer meaningful help:
1. Acknowledge Their Feelings
It's important to validate their emotions. Remember, this is
a significant loss, and not everyone deals with grief the same way, but begin
by acknowledging their feelings of loss, frustration, and anxiety. While you
may be tempted to think of a time you experienced the same loss stay away from
using this as an opportunity to reflect on your experience. Avoid saying "everything
happens for a reason" or "you'll find something better soon."
Instead, say things like "I'm really sorry to hear that" or
"That must be really tough,” or certainly ask if there’s anything you can
do to help.
2. Offer a Listening Ear
Keep in mind that most people just want to be listened to!
That might be the best support you can offer, is simply to listen. Let them
talk about their experience and feelings without interrupting or offering
unsolicited advice. Let them vent if they need to.
3. Practical Help
Offer practical help, such as recommending them for a;
- Review
of their resume
- LinkedIn Networking (help them customize the profile)
- Provide
with Job Leads if you can
- Make
introductions if you are able to do so.
4. Encourage Self-Care
Remind them they are important to you and encourage them to
take care of themselves physically and emotionally. This might include:
- Taking
regular breaks from job searching.
- Engaging
in physical activity or hobbies they enjoy.
- Seeking
professional help, such as career counseling or therapy, if needed.
5. Be Patient and Understanding
When someone has experienced a loss, it takes time to bounce
back! Check-in regularly to see how they're doing. If you are in a position to
support them financially don’t ask, just do it! A grocery gift card, delivering
dinner one night, picking up the tab the next time you’re out for coffee with
them, or asking them to cover a utility bill one time can mean a world of
difference for someone who doesn’t know how they will cover their bills the
next month.
Oh, and very important, please don’t make the gesture
something to brag about with anyone you might know! Be sensitive to those you
help and keep it private.
Finally, take care of yourself!
Compassion and generosity can go hand in hand to help you
and I make the world a better place.
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