In the wake of unprecedented economic shifts and ever-changing industry landscapes, job seekers are grappling with the complex realities of today’s employment market. The job hunt has transformed into a difficult journey marked by unprecedented competition, skill gaps, and the ongoing impact of the pandemic. As job seekers navigate what is considered the “new normal”, at least for the time being, some are finding traditional strategies to be insufficient, leading to a need for adaptability and resilience in their quest for meaningful work.
Negative economic conditions in the medium to long-term can cause companies to downsize which leads to layoffs. Those who are affected have a myriad of questions swimming through their minds, such as: “What if I can’t find a job right away? Will unemployment be enough to support my family and me? What if I can’t get unemployment? What if I am over/underqualified? How can I compete when there is a plethora of people seeking work with many candidates applying for the same job? How can I interview quite well and still not get hired? I have mouths to feed! I’m stressing out – what am I going to do?”
We may never be able to fully empathize with people in this situation, but others can relate to those struggling to find work. “The struggle is real,” “the stress is real” and “I am at my wit’s end.” I have heard all of this recently. It’s disheartening to learn what people are going through due to losing their jobs. The impact is greater than simply updating your status on LinkedIn and using the “Open to Work” banner on your profile picture.
Here is an abbreviated, non-inclusive list of what can happen when someone is unemployed and looking for a job.
1. Financial stress
The uncertainty of job hunting can lead to financial strain, affecting the ability to pay bills, add to savings, or maintain a certain standard of living. The loss of income hinders the ability to cover regular expenses such as rent/mortgage, utilities and groceries, leading to financial insecurity and increased debt.
2. Family dynamics
The financial and emotional stress from job hunting can strain relationships with family. When tensions and worry increase, conflicts can arise with spouses and partners. And that stress can trickle down to the parents’ children.
3. Physical health
The job hunt stress affects physical health, including headaches, high blood pressure, insomnia, and other stress-related conditions. The self-care neglect is a repercussion of being overtaken by the stress of finding a job which can lead to deteriorating health.
4. Loss of benefits
The loss of a job tends to include the loss of insurance benefits provided by the employer. The loss of other employer-provided benefits include retirement contributions (which might be small potatoes when trying to navigate the here and now), and other perks, adding additional financial and emotional stress. Paying out of pocket for medical appointments is crippling. COBRA insurance is crippling.
4. The impact on mental health
The prolonged process of searching for a job can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. Repeated rejections or lack of responses stifles self-esteem and leads to feelings of worthlessness.
Mental health awareness was recognized during the month of May. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is one resource to help you through the difficult time of seeking work. Click here for the NAMI link.
People struggling with being out of work might find themselves more emotional and crying more than usual. Sometimes crying is a last resort and a “throw in the towel” response. Sometimes people cry as their way of venting to provide an emotional release and feeling lighter afterward. Endorphins are released when we cry and can be defined as our body’s natural painkillers since the “feel good” hormones are released and can result in reduced emotional pain, leading to an improved mood when the crying session is complete.
This is one example of something we don’t know what job seekers are truly going through behind the scenes. Be kind, show grace and exhibit compassion to others. One never knows what others may be dealing with.
Ways to help
Check your county, state, city or community for local resources if you have lost your job and are feverishly trying to find other work to support yourself and your family. However, when out of work and seeking new employment, several national resources can provide financial assistance and support. Here are some key national resources available (availability may differ for each personal/family need and by state):
- Unemployment Insurance (UI). While UI is not a regular, full-size paycheck, it does provide temporary financial assistance to eligible individuals who have lost work. Find your state’s UI program for more information.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This program offers financial help and other support services to low-income families with children. You can find this information on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Financial assistance is provided through SNAP to help you purchase food for yourself and your family. Check your local social services offices for more information.
- Energy Assistance (EA). The EA program provides financial aid for electric and gas bills and prevents shut off during the winter months. Contact your local electric and gas company to speak to them about this option.
- Medicaid. This health insurance option offers free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income families and individuals. You can find information about your state on the Medicaid.gov website.
This abbreviated list of resources could stir up varied feelings along the spectrum of support to opposition. Nevertheless, these resources may help provide financial support and services needed to navigate the period of unemployment and enhance job search efforts. Be sure to check local and state-specific programs that may offer additional assistance.
Individuals navigating the repercussions unemployment can also receive help from the support of family and professional networks, as well as proactive strategies to manage stress, maintain health and stay connected with potential opportunities. Contact a local church for prayer and assistance. Some churches also have food pantries available. Search for “local churches with food pantries” if interested in this option.
Remember to take care of yourself and your family while looking for a job. There are resources out there that should not be viewed as taboo. Focusing on your mental health can help you take care of your family while you navigate your search.
Stay well, be kind, and be gracious toward others.
Edited by: James Sutton
