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by
Joan Youngblood, M.A., LPC
Being unemployed is a life span
crisis. Whether it results from a recession, company downsizing, poor individual
performance or leaving a job voluntarily, unemployment has a definite impact on
mental and physical well-being. Whatever the reason, unemployment has a powerful
life change effect on us. The degree of psychological and physical problems
stemming from job loss is usually correlated with the degree of commitment to
one’s work. For the majority of individuals this commitment is very high. Work
plays a large role in our sense of self esteem.
When we lose our functional role in
the workplace we begin to behave as if society no longer values us. We lose
perspective of our own value. Studies of both men and women have shown that
their reactions follow predictable stages which are cyclical.
Stage I 1-2 months
Shock, relief and relaxation plus
belief that reemployment will reoccur as soon as one is ready to look for work.
Stage II -4 months
Concentrated effort to find a new job
along with tendencies to anger which may or may not be ventilated to others.
Stage III 4-6 months
There is a period of vacillation and
self doubt, with high levels of anxiety. Self esteem declines.
Stage IV 6 months and thereafter.
There is resignation and withdrawal
combined with depression. If an individual does not seek career counseling the
lack of self confidence and doubt leads one to settle for less well paying jobs
than held previously. If one seeks career counseling then proactive responses
such as a decision to change careers, acceptance of the reality of the situation
and knowledgeable involvement in the job search process begins.
Understanding the stages you are
likely to progress through and taking steps to counter the negative effects is
essential. Remember, it is no shame to be unemployed. During this present
economic climate this life event occurs frequently. Most individuals will
experience the loss of a position at some time in their lives. The task of each
person is to reach out for the abundant support that is available and, then
implement the knowledge gained about changing jobs and/or careers.
12820 Hillcrest, Suite 201
Dallas, Texas 75230
phone: (877)-956-6400, fax: 972-385-7777
email:skovich@provisionsconsulting.com
© 1997 Provisions Consulting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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