Job Loss Depression: A Word from Sandy Hutchens
There is a form of depression that occurs when someone loses their job. It can have long-lasting effects on the individual, sometimes lasting as long as two years. It can be an even more serious matter. Sandy Hutchens knows of people who have become suicidally depressed. Job loss depression is not just caused by the single event of losing one’s employment. This loss can set in motion a series of events, called a downward spiral of negative life events.

As an example – the loss of a job almost always means that there will be financial stress. These money problems can actually prevent one from being able to make their car payment. The car may be repossessed – which is yet another negative life event. Without any transportation, finding new employment becomes very difficult – yet another negative. The longer one is unemployed the more financial difficulties one may experience. The downward spiral goes on and on. Additionally, one may have lost extended healthcare benefits. This in turn, makes caring for others with health problems very difficult, thus putting more strain on the family.

Job loss depression can amplify other problem areas throughout the period of the person’s unemployment. In addition to the financial and relational strain that job loss causes, individuals usually suffer from feelings of insecurity, and may even suffer from extremely low self-esteem. These emotions, associated with job loss depression, can last up to two years even if they have become gainfully employed. In addition to the psychological impact of job loss depression, studies have proven job loss depression may also influence a person’s physical well being.

Nothing is certain in life and anyone can lose their job at any time. Therefore anyone could be susceptible to job loss depression. Since it is not so much the initial act of losing one’s job that causes the depression, but rather the crisis that job loss causes or the downward spiral of negative life events, you can prepare yourself for these situations by planning ahead. This preparation could incorporate both financial planning for the future and mental health practices that encourage you to find your value and self-worth separate from the employment market.