by Victoria Rose Perkins

Created on: April 18, 2009   Last Updated: May 12, 2009

Getting a lay-off slip, is like getting a huge, unexpected punch in the stomach. That, is just the beginning. Next, you must go home and give the bad news to your family. First, remember you are not alone. The latest statistics indicate all of us either know of a friend, family member or co-worker who has been laid off unexpectedly.

My dear son-in-law had been working for the same company for 13 years. Two months ago, he went to work and was told, "the company is shutting its doors." The workers were not prepared for this, as production had slowed, but he thought it was just a temporary 'blip.' With a mortgage and two children to support, he is struggling.

Things are not any better for my hard working son. He owned his own small insulation business and did quite well for four years. He now has not had any work in nearly six months. He too has a child.

Coping with a job loss turns folks lives upside down, however you can still land right side up, if you don't give in to fear. Easier said than done. When folks lose their jobs, stress levels go up, a ripe opportunity opens up for family arguments and even children will sense the tension in the home. This devastating blow in life, changes who we are. Again, we can come out on top. This tough economic situation calls for us to become tougher.

The good news is, this situation can be dealt with. Following, are some tips to help you out:

1. Apply for any unemployment benefits you are entitled to, right away. Apply for any and all goverment benefits you and your family are entitled to, such as food stamps and fuel assistance. Remember, when you worked, you paid for these benefits.

2. Healthcare is a huge fear. All hospitals and clinics who collect government subsidies/grants (and 99 per cent do), have a law that guarantees you or your family members cannot be denied health care for lack of insurance. If they tried to refuse you, they would be opening themselves up for a lawsuit. The federal government funds these institutions with the purpose of turning no one away.

3. Simplify all areas of your life. Take a hard look at what you can do without. Do you need both a cell phone and landline? Instead of feeling bad, make a challenge for the whole family to have "think-tank" sessions, each contributing their ideas on how to cut back on electricity, cutting out all unnecessary spending and come up with new ideas for entertainment. Instead of electronics and TV all the time, try board games, jigsaw puzzles and

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>