CAREERS

As layoffs rise and unemployment rates hit a high of 6.5%, workers across the nation wait in nervous anticipation to learn the fate of their jobs. And although most will find their jobs shaken, but ultimately safe, others will face the stark reality of sudden job loss. If a layoff happens, there are several things to consider:

1. Losing a job is not the end of the world; no matter how it feels at the moment. Remember, better opportunities could be just around the corner. Keep an open, optimistic mind.
2. Losing a job is, however, a major stressful event; and depression could follow. Do not hesitate to see a health professional if sadness or depression symptoms last more than two weeks. Temporary treatment may be helpful.
3. Losing a job may provide the time and motivation to pursue additional education that could lead to a new career or an improvement in job qualifications. Adult education classes, online degree programs, GED preparation and vocational training are paths to reach these goals.
4. Losing a job may open the door to a wealth of benefits — including unemployment payments, free career training, alternative health care benefits, help finding another job, financial counseling to keep creditors at bay and low-cost babysitting while job-hunting. Check with individual state offices of employment, similar to California’s Employment Development Department.
5. Losing a job could be an opportunity to assess whether it is time to relocate to a place with higher-paying jobs, better weather, lower housing costs or better schools. However, it is important to make sure any eligibility for benefits will transfer to the new location.

Although no one wants to go to work and discover that they no longer have a job, the situation can be a catalyst for change. Keeping a cool head after a layoff is key to making a “return to work” plan and coming out ahead.

layoffs, unemployment rate, workers, jobs, online degree programs, job losses, vocational training, stress, health care, GED

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