Latest / Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor / How can I handle job loss without feeling like I’ve lost myself

Transcript

How can I handle job loss without feeling like I’ve lost myself · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Losing a job often feels bigger than losing an income.
• 0:03
  SPEAKER_00: For a lot of people, work is tied up with identity, structure, and a sense of who they are, so it makes sense that losing it can feel like losing yourself, not just your role.
• 0:13
  SPEAKER_00: And that reaction isn't a sign that something's wrong with you, but it's a sign that the job mattered and that's okay.
• 0:21
  SPEAKER_00: Now it helps us separate what you did from who you are.
• 0:24
  SPEAKER_00: Your job title was one part of your life, not the whole of it.
• 0:27
  SPEAKER_00: And try making a short list of the skills, strengths, and qualities you bring.
• 0:32
  SPEAKER_00: The ones that exist, whether or not you're currently employed, things like being reliable, being good with people, solving problems under pressure.
• 0:40
  SPEAKER_00: As these don't disappear when the job does.
• 0:43
  SPEAKER_00: And it's also worth noticing that if you are taking rejection personally during this time, a knockback on an application is information about the fit and the timing rather than yourself.
• 0:55
  SPEAKER_00: Now, practical ways to support yourself with this may be to give yourself permission to grieve this properly rather than rushing straight into fixing it.
• 1:04
  SPEAKER_00: As a loss like this deserves acknowledgement.
• 1:07
  SPEAKER_00: At the same time, try to build some structure back into your day fairly soon, like a wake-up time, a lunch break, maybe a couple of hours set aside for job searching so it doesn't take over everything.
• 1:19
  SPEAKER_00: You can also tell people who care about you what's happened rather than carrying it along, as loved ones can offer practical and emotional support if they know what's going on.
• 1:29
  SPEAKER_00: Now, if you notice this tipping into ongoing hopelessness, loss of interest in things you usually enjoy, or you're finding it hard to function day to day, that's worth raising with your GP or a therapist.
• 1:40
  SPEAKER_00: As job loss can sit alongside depression and anxiety for some people, and getting support early can make a real difference.
• 1:48
  SPEAKER_00: Now, for more support and tools around self worth and job identity, you can always come back to this topic in the app.
• 1:54
  SPEAKER_00: And if you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.