How losing your job could affect you
Losing your job stirs up many different feelings.
It’s common to experience a range of emotional reactions to unexpected loss or changes in life.
You might feel angry, guilty, worthless, sad, powerless or helpless, or a sense of shock.
In addition to other feelings of stress, you might be feeling:
It’s common to experience a range of emotional reactions to unexpected loss or changes in life.
You might feel angry, guilty, worthless, sad, powerless or helpless, or a sense of shock.
In addition to other feelings of stress, you might be feeling:
- anger, frustration, embarrassment or a sense of injustice
- doubt, confusion, or loss of direction
- numbness, disbelief or a feeling that it can’t be real
- grief over the loss of your job (and what comes with it – like activity, security and relationships)
- uncertainty and worry for the future
- worried about money.
You might also be wondering what you could have done differently to avoid this outcome.
For most people, these feelings and thoughts will get better with time and support. It's an important time to look after your mental health to help you navigate your next steps.
For most people, these feelings and thoughts will get better with time and support. It's an important time to look after your mental health to help you navigate your next steps.
How to look after yourself after job loss
Some things are out of your control. But there are things you can do to help you gain a sense of control over your situation.
Prioritise your wellbeing
It can help to:
- talk to friends and family members
- try to limit alcohol and other substances
- consider what you information you consume as it may increase your stress
- prioritise planning of how you’ll find your next job
- be patient with yourself – it can take time to work through.
There are many other things you can do to look after your mental health and wellbeing. Some are simple, others more challenging. Making a plan is a great place to start.
Learn more ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing
Learn more ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing
Money, stress and loss of work
Losing work often comes with financial worry. This is an important time to take steps to look after your finances.
Managing money stress
Many people feel uncomfortable thinking or talking about money troubles. It's common to try and ignore it, or not know where to start.
Actions you can take include:
- acknowledge the link between money stress and mental health
- start taking steps to look at your financial situation (this might include making a budget or contacting your bank)
- seek mental health support to help with the stress that often comes with financial challenges.
Don’t delay – the earlier you seek support for both money stress and mental health, the better.
Find support for your financial wellbeing
- Moneysmart – providing free tools, tips and guidance to help you take care of your money.
- National Debt Helpline – find information and resources as well as free advice and support from qualified financial counsellors.
