Affected by economic slowdown? Use these steps for tackling unemployment trauma

Furloughing, sacking, slashing salaries, and lay-offs are some of the most common words one can hear in the world-of-work these days. The lingering trauma of unemployment is continuously disrupting the lives of many graduates. And hence the soaring need for tackling unemployment!

Unemployment is one of the grimmest prospects, especially when it threatens to turn into an unending quest. It can push even the most optimistic souls into the laps of anxiety and depression. With millions of jobs at risk and a drought of job opportunities, surprisingly even the most prestigious undergraduate and graduate degrees, are experiencing a bumpy ride. And this trauma of being unemployed leads to an intense feeling where we unconsciously measure our actions against normal standards, discovering that we are falling short.

The negative effects of one’s unemployment can lead to destructive behaviour, self-isolation, disturbed mindset, and can even affect relations. But one cannot continue living cast down and dejected. When a major part of this depends on getting things back to normal, one has to devise ways to survive this upheaval in such an economy. 

A rough picture of market post lockdown

No one can ascertain whether the economy will show a V-shaped recovery, a U-shaped one, or an L-shaped one post lockdown. But a rough sketch of what may happen can be very well drafted. Let's have a look at it:

1. There is a strong possibility of an increase in demand for digital skills
2. Consolidation of models could be the go-to mantra of various industries
3. The world economy may witness a negative growth of up to 3 per cent, but since India is less dependent on exports compared to China and Japan, the growth may remain static at 4-5 per cent
4. Economic crises in countries like India could result in boosting labour productivity
5. Up to 25 per cent of jobs may be lost in the Retail sector 
6. EMIs of your education loan should not be a matter of worry as the banks will give a moratorium
7. Logistics and Supply chain might become more dependent on seeking external help
8. The future jobs would demand candidates to mould themselves to fit into the available roles
9. Sectors like transportation, storage, warehousing would recover quickly once the lockdown is lifted
10. However, the sectors dependent on people's behaviour like travel, hotels, aviation, and malls could take the longest time to recover

Steps for tackling unemployment trauma

Many of you may be perplexed after reading the probable market scenario. But it is good to understand that the future may yet hold surprises and there is nothing wrong with being prepared for the worst-case scenarios. If you are unemployed, it is common to think that you have lost a significant component of your identity. But what next? We have to think of ways of tackling unemployment before it spirals into a paralyzing depression. Here is what we can do:

Normalize and communicate acceptance

First, accept how you feel. Everyone has setbacks and you cannot avoid it. You have every right to feel sad, puzzled, and anxious. With the economy going haywire, these are natural feelings during this time. But do not look at it as a failure. Be compassionate and do not drown yourself in self-pity. Take a deep breath and validate that this is a difficult time. Treat yourself good and start fresh, even if you have gained nothing after trying 2-3 times. Think ahead!

Be a hawk-eyed graduate

After you have accepted the daunting reality, run a reality check. Observe the trends, but do not worry about the market. It will channelize itself accordingly. Focus on your strengths and weaknesses, skill set, make a list of things you need to upgrade, and think of how you can survive the scenario. Figure out where you are going wrong, talk to experts, make use of social platforms like LinkedIn, and get down to the roots. 

Get your juices flowing

Instead of ruminating and brooding over negative thoughts like ‘why did it happen to me?’ find ways to be productive. We accept that it's easier said than done, but no one else can fix this for you. Set up a routine, acquire new skills, join a community, help someone, attend a support group, reach out to people, engage in productive distractions like blogging, volunteering, or anything as per your interest.

Keep a tab on risk factors

While tackling unemployment anxiety, it is necessary to keep a check on probable risk factors. Observe your sleep patterns, eating habits, and palpitations. Understand that in the process, you may fall twice or thrice, but what is more important is your ability to get back on track. Remind yourself of your achievements, cultivate positive thoughts, and appreciate your efforts. Listen to your mind, and instead of gushing over ill thoughts, give rest to your body.

Seek inspiration when you need it the most

There is no dearth of motivational content. Surf the internet, watch inspiring videos or listen to motivating podcasts. There are numerous movies and self-help books, explore them. In fact, if you have an inspirational figure available, contact that person. Talk about his/her failures and journey. Learn how well they have risen after falling down. Gaining from their experiences is one of the best ways of tackling unemployment trauma. You have got what it takes, all you need is some extra time and perseverance to sail past these dark times. 

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