Tips for taking care of your mental health this layoff season

Job loss is primarily a professional setback, but it can have a lasting impact on an individual’s mental and social well-being. For a long time, the year 2022 will be remembered for the large-scale downsizing that occurred in the technology and start-up sectors. So far, more than 135,000 employees in these industries have been laid off in 2022. For many people, a job is just a job. But for many others, it could be their life’s calling, their passion, giving them a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Losing it could very well leave them without defined goals and objectives, which would affect their long-term happiness and health. (Also read: Mental Health at Work: Causes, Negative Effect on Employees, Solutions )

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Prakriti Poddar, Mental Health Expert and Global Head of Mental Health and Wellbeing, RoundGlass, suggests, “It’s important to take the time to process your feelings and be reassured that what is not the end of the world.While being fired may impact your current level of confidence – and your finances – this is in no way a commentary on you as an individual and professional. In the long course of professional and personal life, it is only an obstacle in the road.

She says: “The only thing you need most at this point is another job. But that takes time and the journey to your next work destination could be difficult. It’s important to put your well-being first. during this time and take care of your body and mind. Incorporating simple wellness habits and practices into your daily routine can help you meet these challenges with grace and improve your well-being.” She further shared some simple tips for prioritizing your well-being to deal with professional setbacks.

1. Accept your feelings: Recognize and identify the setback and use it as a stepping stone to growth. Listen to your inner voice, follow your courage, and act with conviction even when the going gets tough.

2. Create a routine: In a time when uncertainty is your greatest challenge, the lackluster predictability of a routine can be pleasantly reassuring and provide you with an emotional grounding. Set an intention for each day and stick to a routine that you followed at work. This will help keep you mentally engaged and focus your energies on determining your next steps.

3. Stay connected: As you go through this difficult phase, it is crucial to stay in touch with people who matter and who are close to you. Do not hesitate to lean on them for emotional support.

4. Move and stay physically active: Mental and physical well-being go hand in hand. Stay active throughout the day – by exercising or doing chores – to reduce anxiety and maintain a positive attitude.

5. Eat healthy: You might want to gorge on chocolates and ice cream to feel better, but taking care of your physical health by eating mindfully will help you stay fit and mentally alert.

6. Try meditation and mindfulness: Embracing and learning something new can feel overwhelming at such a time, but these proven practices make you less reactive and more resilient, and help you bounce back.

Use this experience to exit autopilot mode and actively begin charting the course to your next destination. Don’t dwell on the “why”, but focus on the “what” and the “and then”. Take a step back and look at the bigger picture to understand what worked and what didn’t. And how you can apply the learnings to secure and improve your professional and financial well-being today and in the future.

Always trust your intuition, your instincts and your inner strength. As humans, we’re hardwired to resist change — but breaking through and stepping out of our comfort zone is the only way to grow.

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