Unemployment And The Holidays

The stress and anxiety that comes with unemployment can be very taxing. It’s not an easy time for any individual or family to go through. Adding in the holiday season can make things even harder, especially those with families.

Whilst unemployment is a difficult situation to deal with at any point in time, there are things that can be done during the holidays to reduce stress and expectations that you may force on yourself.
 
 
 
 
Money: This can be one of the biggest concerns – How will I pay the bills? How will I purchase gifts? When will I get another pay check? How do I keep food on the table? etc…

Whilst these are logical questions and concerns, there is financial assistance out there to help with bills and a bit of cash flow for the home. Get unemployment assistance from non-profits and government benefits and loans. These services are there to help bridge the financial gap whilst looking for work.

 
Gifts: If you have a family, providing your loved ones with gifts may be a big concern. Whilst gifts may be a great gesture, it shouldn’t define a family unit (easy to say but it’s true). If gifts are important to you, there are different non-profits and charities that do hold gift drives and provide new gifts to low income families.

Outside of actual fantastic plastic, creating things can be a great way of providing something to family members during the holidays – hand made things generally are appreciated more and will carry more sentimental value.

Skipping gifts and doing family activities can also be a great way to still celebrate the holidays. Cook together, watch a movie together, go fishing, go to the beach, go camping…essentially look to do something that is very low cost or free together. Creating memories is more important than material items. I know it’s easier said than done, but your creativity can make things fun.

Your feelings: During tough times, people tend to go through waves of positive and negative thoughts. Try to remember that things happen and whether they are good or bad, they are all moments that will pass. Don’t beat yourself up and look for opportunity in all that is around you. The tide will change and you will be back in work eventually…its always a matter of time.

Managing Stress: If you are doing tough, don’t try hiding your feelings and/or try and shoulder all the stress on your own…this will only make things worse. Lean on family and friends, keep a normal routine going, eat and sleep well, don’t take up bad habits. Utilise all the government benefits and resource you are entitled to and before you know it – you will be working again.

 
Unemployment is never easy and dealing with the unknown can be scary, even to the most self-assured of people. Working through challenging times will only make you stronger and more confident in everything you do. Unexpected situations are always going to occur, utilise and take advantage of the help around you and turn things around.