The Emotional Impact of Unemployment

Unemployment statistics focus on the number of individuals comprising the ranks of the unemployed. There is a world of information available regarding the dos and don’ts of interviewing, resume structure, what should and shouldn’t go in a cover letter, how to dress for an interview, and what interview questions to ask and/or not ask. But, what about the people behind those numbers? Has anyone addressed the emotional impact of unemployment? What about the isolation the unemployed feel? The anxiety, depression, insomnia, even anger over their unemployment?

Having been on the other side of the desk in the past and having to terminate an employee, I have seen emotional reactions ranging from shock and disbelief to anger and resentment. For many individuals, oftentimes work is a central component of their identity. Their self-worth is connected to their titles and what they have accomplished through their jobs. In a single moment, unemployment has reduced their self-worth.

With today’s high unemployment rates we all personally know someone that has been affected by a layoff, company closure, etc. These individuals now all have one single, sole objective in mind: to find a new job.

Initially the individual puts 100% effort into finding a new job. Looking for a job becomes a full-time job. The individual spends long hours in front of a computer, networking and scanning multiple job boards for that small glimmer of hope referred to as a “job posting.” A job that may match the skills and experience the individual has to offer. With all the time spent in front of a computer, the search becomes a mind-numbing process. Application after application is submitted electronically and maybe, just maybe, the individual receives an automatic response letter.

In this day and age the job search has been reduced to an “inhuman process.” With the majority of the job search process done electronically, how often does the individual actually interact with another live person? Because of the lack of interaction, the individual begins to feel isolated from the world. Compound the isolation with the lack of responses to the multiple applications the individual has submitted, a lack of motivation occurs due to a perception of “rejection.” The individual begins to focus more and more on the pain of their current situation. After a period of time, this all takes toll on the individual’s attitude.

Rejection (and being ignored) is a common experience during a job search. The number of applicants far outweighs the available positions. Not being chosen for a job can be discouraging and rejection can erode confidence, positive attitude and motivation. Applicants should not personalize the rejection. The need to maintain a positive attitude is critical to the job-seeker’s chances of success.

We all agree that finding a job is the #1 priority and it does take a significant amount of time. But an individual can’t look for a job 24 hours a day. There needs to be a diversion from the stress of the layoff, and the individual must avoid isolation.

To maintain motivation in the job search, I recommend:

• Get out of the house strengthen and expand your network.
• Enroll in classes to assist you in developing new employment skills.
• Strengthen the connection you have with family and friends. You may need them for emotional support.
• Also, try to maintain a regular schedule as if you were still employed. Set a schedule and stick with it!
• Develop goals and stick with them.
• Most importantly - Keep a positive attitude!