Dealing with unemployment is like dealing with the loss of a loved one for some people. And similar to grief, it's hard to remain hopeful when you're constantly facing rejection and having to summon up the strength to ask your loved ones (or the government) for help.
It's difficult to comprehend hope when you're down. It's difficult to comprehend the reality of unemployment, period. It can take a lot out of you. But, if you do your best to remain hopeful and persistent, this humbling experience can become one of the most rewarding things you'll ever go through.
These five tips can help you cope.
Tap into your faith.
If you've never been unemployed, chances are you have no idea where to look for resources. People often overlook the most obvious place when it comes to finding resources which is the church (or home to whatever faith you practice). Many faith-based organizations offer, or are affiliated with, housing and food assistance programs.
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Mary Kaarto, the author of Hope For The Laid Off Devotionals, says faith is what got her through when she had $1.31 to her name and was denied financial assistance.
“The longer somebody is laid off, the self-esteem will start to plummet. Especially in this economy. I found praying really helped me," said Kaarto.
READ: My Story: Man Loses Weight By Faith
Get out of the house.
After having a meltdown, while seeing her neighbors drive off to work, Kaarto phoned her sister in tears. Soon after, she called her church and asked if she could volunteer as the receptionist.
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“It hit me really hard because I didn't have any place to go to... During that time I was so desperate to get out of the house. Being laid off is such a lonely and isolating experience. It can be a breeding ground for depression. If you have someplace to go every day [it helps],” said Kaarto.
Give back.
Now, this may sound crazy because some people feel they don't have anything to give, even to themselves. But, time is a very valuable thing. Volunteering at a local hospital, food pantry or park district can help you to remember that you are needed and take your mind off of your own situation. It can also become an opportunity to network and get your foot back in the door.
READ: Running Out On Depression
After losing her mother to medical negligence, Kaarto began a free missionary to care for hospitalized patients of families who couldn't afford to take time off from work.
"Quit thinking about yourself and go help somebody," Kaarto recommends. "There's always somebody that is worse off than you.”
Barter for services.
Use your professional skills to your advantage. For example, if you have a background in IT or janitorial work, offer your service in exchange for whatever service you are seeking. You'd be surprised by the number of things businesses are willing to accept. It just may be something that they are in need of as well.
While being laid off, Kaarto fell and broke her knee. With no health insurance, she continued to walk around on it for 10 months until the pain was just unbearable.
“I called [my] orthopedic surgeon and said here's what happened, this is how long I've gone. 'I have no money. I have no insurance. But, I can't handle this anymore. If I can get you an article written about your practice, will you please look at my knee. Can I please, please come into your office?,' Kaarto recalled.
The surgeon agreed to see her the same day free of charge. Kaarto held up her end of the bargain and had a story published in the Houston Chronicle. She was also successful at bartering with her hairstylist in exchange for babysitting.
Remember who you are.
You lost your job. But, you didn't lose you. You're still the worthy, educated and skilled human being you were before you got the job. Don't isolate yourself. Now is as good a time as any to rely on your friends and family to maintain a sense of normalcy. Find free or discounted activities to enjoy with your loved ones.
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