Mental Health

Taking care of yourself during this transition

Being laid off isn't just a career setback—it's an emotional experience. It's normal to feel grief, anger, anxiety, or even relief. Whatever you're feeling is valid. This page is here to help you navigate the emotional side of this transition.

Common Feelings After a Layoff

Shock & Denial

"This can't be happening." Even if you saw it coming, the reality can feel surreal. This is normal and typically passes within a few days.

Anger & Frustration

You might feel angry at your employer, the economy, or yourself. Acknowledge these feelings, but try not to let them drive important decisions.

Anxiety & Fear

Worries about money, your future, and your identity are completely normal. Breaking things down into small, actionable steps can help.

Grief & Sadness

You've lost more than a job—you've lost colleagues, routine, and part of your identity. Allow yourself to grieve.

Relief

Sometimes layoffs happen from jobs that weren't working out anyway. It's okay to feel relieved—that doesn't make the other feelings less valid.

Coping Strategies

1. Maintain a Routine

Structure helps. Wake up at the same time, get dressed, and create a schedule for your days. Include time for job searching, exercise, and activities you enjoy.

2. Stay Connected

Isolation is tempting but harmful. Reach out to friends and family. Join support groups or networking events. You don't have to go through this alone.

3. Move Your Body

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage stress and anxiety. Even a daily walk can make a significant difference in your mood.

4. Limit News & Social Media

Constant doom-scrolling about the economy or layoffs can increase anxiety. Set boundaries around your media consumption.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

This isn't your fault. Layoffs are business decisions, not reflections of your worth. Talk to yourself like you would talk to a good friend.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider reaching out to a mental health professional if you experience:

  • Persistent feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
  • Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Thoughts of self-harm
  • Increased use of alcohol or substances

Crisis Resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Reframing Your Situation

While it doesn't feel like it now, many people look back on their layoff as a turning point that led to better things. Consider:

  • This might be the push you needed to pursue work you actually enjoy
  • You have an opportunity to reassess what you really want from your career
  • Your next role might come with better compensation, culture, or work-life balance
  • You're more resilient than you think—you will get through this