Tough Stuff to Talk About

Job loss creates all types of opportunities to start over, move ahead and get on with life and careers. Most of the activities we choose to engage in, in so doing, are good, wholesome, productive, positive, and healthy for us. On the other hand, there are also opportunities for seriously self-destructive, troublesome, unhealthy, damaging, and self-defeating choices, habits and behaviors in response to job loss.

Look around you; by now, most of us know someone who has been impacted by job loss. The reality is that each person responds to job loss in a very, very different way. Pay attention to your friend, loved one, or colleague. How are they doing? Are they really doing okay or are they just saying that to keep the conversation light and airy and to avoid the tough stuff to talk about? Keep in touch. Let others know you care about them. Don't shy away from the person in transition; they need you now more than ever, whether they'll admit it or not.

If you are an individual in career transition, how can you tell if it is time to ask for help from a qualified mental health professional?

* When the way you feel is effecting everything -- your relationships, your life, your eating habits, and your sleeping patterns.

* When you feel like no one cares and nothing matters.

* When you feel like you're getting worse, not better.

* When you feel trapped and don't know where to turn.

* When you worry all the time and can't seem to find the answers.

* When you feel worthless, hopeless, and think more about giving up than going on.

If you are experiencing depression, substance abuse, panic attacks, anxiety issues, addictions or other mental health concerns as a result of job loss, ask for help now from a licensed mental health professional engaged in psychology, psychiatry, or social work who will be there to support your mental health and well-being. There are times when, no matter how good the life coach, career coach, or business coach, the type of help you need is well beyond the scope of a coach's expertise.

You need not be embarrassed or ashamed by asking for help from a mental health provider. Just don't try to go it alone -- there is help! There are people who care much about you. Don't shut them out. And you can get yourself back on track. Listed below are some resources for help and support; if you are aware of other resources, please feel free to add them in a comment.

* Health Hotlines from the National Library of Medicine

* Find A Therapist

* In Crisis? Call now! 1-800-273-TALK (8255) (Veterans - Press 1)

posted by: billiesucher

Comments

[Larry Lehmer]

Good advice, Billie. While many of us "circle the wagons" in times of stress, we too often take for granted or ignore our supportive relationships with the people in those wagons.

[billiesucher]

Larry, thanks for your comment. Yes, keeping in touch is such a good thing -- not only when things are going well, but also the more troubling times.
Best ~ Billie