Losing your job can be a traumatic and stressful experience. Whether you have been retrenched, laid off, or are struggling to find work, the experience can take a toll on your mental health and well-being. Counselling can be a helpful tool to support you during this challenging time.

Coping with the emotional impact

Unemployment can be emotionally distressing. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-worth. Counselling can help you cope with the emotional impact of unemployment by providing a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about your feelings. Your counsellor can help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies to manage them.

Managing stress

Unemployment can be a stressful experience. You may be worried about finances, social isolation, or uncertainty about the future. Counselling can help you manage stress by teaching you relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation. Your counsellor can also help you develop stress management strategies, such as setting boundaries, maintaining a routine, and practicing self-care.

Addressing mental health issues

Unemployment can exacerbate underlying mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Counselling can help you address these issues by providing a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about your feelings. Your counsellor can help you develop coping strategies, provide emotional support, and refer you to other healthcare professionals if necessary.

Building resilience

Counselling can help you build resilience to better manage the challenges of unemployment. By developing coping strategies, building a support network, and addressing underlying mental health issues, you can build resilience and develop a greater sense of control over your life. This can help you feel more confident and prepared to manage future challenges.

A Complimentary Resource for You

EMCC has partnered with Barclays to tailor a comprehensive mental wellness programme, the EMCC-Barclays LifeSkills Programme, that has helped 102 unemployed individuals through engaging peer support groups, one-to-one counselling sessions, skills training, and job coaching.

To support more individuals struggling with unemployment, we will be organising a third run of the EMCC-Barclays LifeSkills Programme in September 2024. Registration begins in August. Sign up now!