TIPS TO REDUCE AND MANAGE UNEMPLOYMENT STRESS

The issue of unemployment is really a problem to
any average citizen and it is normal to feel hurt,
vulnerable or even angry during this period.
It is very normal for some people to be employed
before or after schooling and for some not to be
employed, even after a long search for any job. If
one is faced with this problem of unemployment,
he/she should check for some factors that must
have contributed to it. For instance check out for
your skills and qualifications (check out some jobs
you have applied for whether you are really
qualified for it practically) and make some
improvement where necessary. Also check your
attitudes towards interviews and the quality of
your resume.
After conducting the checks and the conclusion
remains that nothing is wrong, to ease yourself of
the situation (i.e. the unemployment stress), and
maintain an active spirit, it is advised to take the
following tips:-
1. ACTIVELY DEAL WITH YOUR FEELINGS: – you
may feel hurt, angry, scared, panicked and rejected,
this will make it harder for you to get back on the
job market, so it’s important to actively face and
deal with your feelings. Acknowledge your feelings
and challenge your negative thoughts. To do this,
practice the following:-
Write about your feelings (express everything you
feel about being unemployed)
Accept the reality of the situation
Still focus on your goals (don’t beat or put yourself
down, let your confidence be intact, reject every
negative thoughts that goes through your mind).
2. REACH OUT TO OTHERS: – Don’t unestimate the
importance of other people when you are faced
with unemployment. You can do so by:-
Letting people know you are not working and you
are looking for work.
Turning to people you trust for support.
Join or start a job club.
Stay connected through networking
3. INVOLVE YOUR FAMILY: – Unemployment
affects the whole family, so ensure the
communication line is open and active. Let
everyone know what is going on (tell them about
your job search plans, update them on promising
development and let them know they can still
support you while you are unemployed), listen ti
their concerns and make time for family fun.
4. TAEK CARE OF YOURSELF:- you can do this by
practicing the following:-
• Maintain a balance in your life (take time to rest
and have fun)
• Make time for regular exercise
• Get plenty of sleep (don’t use your job search
time for sleeping)
• Practice relaxation techniques.
5. STAY POSITIVE DURING A LONG JOB SEARCH.
To do this,
• Keep a regular daily routine.
• Create a job search plan for yourself.
• List your positives (i.e. make a list of all the
things you like about yourself, including skills,
personality traits, accomplishments and successes)
.
• Focus on the things you can control.
• Rediscover what truly makes you happy.
6. CHECK INTO NEW CAREER OPPORTUNITIES OR
THE POSSIBILITY OF CONTINUING YOUR
EDUCATION:- At this period of unemployment, it is
the best opportunity to take stock of your life and
have a rethink on your career goals.
7. Pursue the hobbies you’ve always wanted but
never seemed to have time for.
8. Before going to bed, prepare a written plan for
the next day. This will give you reasons to get up
early and look for something to do.
9. Get yourself involve in any vocational job in one
of the government rehabilitation centers.