Staying positive
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Staying positive through job loss and unemployment stress
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges for many people through job losses and risk of unemployment. This article will provide tips on how to deal with these stresses and stay focused.
Lost your job?
Many people have recently lost their job due to the downturn of the economy caused by the Covid- 19 pandemic which has seen companies downsizing as well as reducing staff in order to stay afloat. This has brought high levels of stress for those who have lost their jobs or are at risk of being made redundant which in turn has affected health and well-being.
A job often provides structure and a social outlet for people and once someone loses their job it can become difficult to find some form of routine to follow. It also makes many very anxious as to how to cope with the financial stress that comes with losing a job.
However, there are coping techniques which can help you overcome these obstacles and set you on track again.
Tip 1 Address your feeling
Adjusting to no longer having a job can be quite difficult. Address your concerns rather than bottling them up. Do not dwell on the past but consider your job loss a minor setback. Think positive as to what you need to do to secure your next post.
Tip 2 Staying in contact
Sometimes losing a job may make you feel as though you don’t want to interact with friends and family due to the embarrassment of someone asking about your job. You should remember that there are many people in your positon who have lost their job or are facing redundancy.
Many have also secured new roles since and may be able to provide insight as to how they have coped throughout the process. Sometimes all you need is for somewhere to listen to your problems. They may also be able to provide you with guidance on stability and your future.
Tip 3 Creating new links
In order cope with the stress of unemployment it is good to keep busy and explore new avenues to gain and build on your existing skill set. These include:
- Networking: There are a lot of jobs out there which are not advertised in the usual way but are secured through networking with the correct people. Try attending local job fair/ virtual job fairs to meet prospective employers and see what type of roles they are offering.
- Community events: Attending community events can be a good way to meet new people as well as seeing whether local businesses are hiring.
Tip 4 Find a new hobby or activity
Finding a meaningful hobby or activity can help you take your mind off the stress of not having a job. These include outdoor activities that can get you out of the house as well as indoor activities such as learning a new language which can help you secure a new role. Some of these events/courses are free to attend so it is easier for those without a steady income to attend these sessions.
Volunteering can also be a good way of meeting new people and learning a new skill in order to broaden your knowledge and experience.
Tip 5 Maintain a healthy diet
Losing a job can bring different levels of stress and for some comfort eating is a way of dealing with this. You should ensure that you are eating healthy as this will have a positive impact on your energy level and positivity.
Tip 6 Staying mentally healthy
Enjoying mental health means
- Having a sense of wellbeing.
- Being able to function during everyday life.
- Feeling confident to rise to a challenge when the opportunity arises.
Just like your physical health, there are things that you can do to increase your mental health.
Please visit
The Newham website for further information.
Tip 7 Help with your finances
Get advice from Our Newham Money
Our Newham Money offers support to Newham residents who may be struggling with debt or the everyday cost of living. They are a free confidential service to help you secure financial wellbeing. You can get help with:
- Affordable loans: Our Newham Money offer a range of affordable loans to suit your needs. With their loans, you can borrow up to £1500 and repay weekly or monthly, spread over two years or less.
- Smart spending: Improve your finances with Our Newham Money’s money saving tips. The team have a range of useful tips and tools to help make your money go further.
- Regular saving: How much can you afford to save? Start small and grow big to help with emergencies and ongoing financial plans.
- Benefits and income advice: Our Newham Money can help ensure you have access to all the help you need to pay bills including council tax and any rent arrears you may have. They can also ensure you are getting any benefits you are entitled to.
- Debt advice: Free, impartial and confidential debt advice. They can help you understand what options are available to you and support you to set up repayment plans.