Tag Archives: Unemployment

Employment Expertise: Five Tips to Stay Mentally Healthy While Unemployed

 

By West Michigan Works!

 

Losing a job is one of the most stressful things that can happen to someone. In fact, it is ranked among the top 10 most stressful life events.

 

Job loss brings many emotions including sadness, fear, anxiety, anger and embarrassment. Many times you will cycle through these emotions. For example, if you just lost your income and you get a bill in the mail, you may feel anxious; this then becomes fear, then embarrassment, which turns to anger and leaves you sad. 

 

These feelings are normal. There is no right way to feel when faced with a job loss and no timeline for feeling better. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help boost your mood when you’re feeling stuck in a low spot.

 

Take a break. But not for too long! A short break will leave you feeling rested and ready to start your job search.

 

Get up and move. Physical activity is a great way to reduce stress and avoid depression. Use your new found freedom to take a walk, go for a hike or try a yoga class. Have a dog? Take them with you! Pets can reduce stress and depression, too.

 

Make a schedule. After your short break, try to settle into a routine. Set your alarm as if you were going to work. Schedule time for physical activity, relaxation and of course, working to find a new job.

 

Connect with your network. Did you put off spending time with a friend or family member because life was too busy while you were working? Make time to sit down with them now. You will feel better after spending time with people you love. You can also let them know you are looking for a new job and ask if they have any ideas.

 

Volunteer. This is a great way to stay active and positive. People who regularly volunteer are less likely to become depressed. Who knows? Your volunteer work might turn into a paying job!

 

If you or a loved one are having trouble coping with the stress and emotions of losing a job, you are not alone. Unemployed Americans are more than twice as likely to be depressed. Depression is a common condition that can be treated and there is help. Network 180 provides mental health and substance abuse services to residents of Kent County. Learn more on their website: http://www.network180.org/.

 

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

Newly Unemployed? Five Steps to Put you on the Road to a New Job or Career

 

By West Michigan Works!


It’s no secret that job loss is stressful. Losing your income, daily routine and professional identity can lead to feelings of anger, fear and grief. Coping with these emotions can make searching for a new job overwhelming. There are things you can do to help stay positive and keep moving forward.


Start by organizing what you need to do into easy-to-follow steps. Focus on one step at time. Every time you complete a step, check it off your list. Eventually your list will no longer seem so overwhelming! The checklist below can help you get started.


Register with the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). You can register for unemployment and update your records all online. Visit the Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) to set up an account and file your claim.


Create a Pure Michigan Talent Connect (PMTC) account. PMTC is an online portal where you can search for jobs and upload your resume so employers can find you. Get started at www.mitalent.org/.


Visit a Michigan Works! service center. Once you file for unemployment, you will need to register for work in person at a service center. Michigan Works! staff can help you through the process. The service center in Ottawa County is located at 121 Clover St, Holland, MI 49423. Visit the West Michigan Works! website to find other locations in our region.


Talk to a service center staff member. They can tell you what free services you are eligible for. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for employment preparation, career planning or scholarships for career training or on-the-job training.


Connect online. Follow the Michigan Works! Facebook page in your county to stay up-to-date on employers that are hiring and other resources for job seekers. Update your PMTC profile at least once every 30 days. This ensures your information will continue to be seen by employers.


Remember to stay positive, take it one step at a time and use the many resources available to job seekers. West Michigan Works! offers a variety of free services to help you develop a plan and take your next step to a new career!


Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.