Tips to Cope with Unemployment

Unemployment has been at a high, especially since the pandemic. While there were still plenty of companies that could allow their employees to work from home, even more were unable to do so. Because of this, many businesses had to close unless they were considered essential. Then, there were the essential workers who had to find a way to homeschool their children while working. For some, it just wasn't possible. 

Even as our country tries to turn around and get the economy back up and running, the truth is that many people are still unemployed to this day. The financial burden can be overwhelming for those who are unemployed. 

Unemployed people from all over the country are struggling with their finances. However, it doesn't have to be this way. Here are some tips to cope during this stressful time.

Accept your feelings. When you lost your job, you may have panicked for a while. You deserve time to grieve this loss, like any other one. Be mad, angry, and upset. You are allowed to feel this way. If you are having a rough day, take a breath, and give in to the feelings. Then, it is time to move on.

Maintain a perspective. Though it may not feel like it, you are not alone. Millions of people are unemployed during this pandemic (and as our economy struggles to recover). You are not the only one struggling. You are not the only one who is upset.

It might also help to remember that you lost your job due to the pandemic, not anything that you did wrong. Covid has shut many small businesses down, and many of them haven't been able to survive. 

Stick to a budget. It is even more important, when finances are tight, to stick to a budget. You need to know exactly what is coming in and what is going out. Knowing how much you can afford to spend on certain things will make it easier to stop yourself from overspending at the grocery store (or anywhere else).

Don't be afraid to talk to your lenders. Many mortgage and other lenders will do what they can to help you during this time, as long as you talk to them. They may be able to lower your payments or give you a grace period while you try to get back on your feet.

Ask for help. If you are struggling to put food on your table, there are many options for you and your family. You might be eligible for unemployment during this time. There are also resources to help with your health insurance. 

Food banks and other places are offering food for families who are struggling. During the holidays, many places (and people) are helping families have a special meal for Thanksgiving and gifts for the children on Christmas.

Use this time to figure out what you want your future to look like. Whether you think that you may be able to go back to your current job or not, now is the perfect time to figure out what you want for the future. Do you want to go back to the same job if you can? Would you like to use this opportunity to grow yourself by furthering your education? Do you want to try something completely different? Would you rather try to find a job where you can work from home?

Take this time off to focus on yourself and your future. Update your resume. Take classes to further your education. Look for employment now, instead of just waiting for the pandemic to be over.

Being unemployed, especially when it is sudden, can be very hard to handle. You may deal with many emotions, including anger, denial, and great sadness. However, it helps to realize that you are not alone. There are millions of Americans who are struggling right beside you. 

So, what can you do? You can set a budget and talk to your lenders so that you can continue to pay your bills. You also should ask for help if you need it. Many food banks are available for families who need it. You may also take this time to think about what you want for the future. Do you want to go back to your current job, or are you interested in bettering yourself for a new one?

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Previously published on Medium and/or Newsbreak.