We’re living in a strange economy now, one that is not only affecting federal jobs but careers all over the US – and, arguably, all over the world. Many people, in all industries, are living in fear. Some have been laid off already, but a large percentage of people are finding themselves fearing that some part of their job will be in jeopardy.
We can discuss at length the effects that layoffs and business loss will have on mental health, but for now, let’s talk specifically about the damage that even just the *fear* of layoffs can do, and why it becomes so important to make sure that you’re getting the support you need now, long before you experience any significant economic changes.
Fear Alone and the Effects of Stress on Mental Health
The issue with economic fears is that they bleed into many other parts of your life. The constant stress of layoffs alone can lead to many issues, including:
- Development of Mental Health Disorders – Perhaps the most significant issue is that economic fears cause constant, ongoing stress. That stress can specifically cause the development of psychological disorders, most notably anxiety and depression. Stress changes the connections in our brains, and if we allow ourselves to continue to experience that stress, our risk of anxiety and depression increase.
- Priming for Actual Layoffs – Another risk relates to what happens if you ARE laid off. If you have been under constant stress as a result of your worries and fears, then, if you lose your job, you’re starting from a position where you’re already under significant stress before the job loss happened. You’re far more likely to experience more severe mental health challenges as a result.
- Stress and Other Life Challenges – When we’re stressed about work, it tends to affect so many other components of our lives. It can affect our relationships, and poor relationships can contribute to additional stress. It can affect our parenting, and poor parenting can affect our stress levels. Overall, work stress is never just work stress, and layoff/economic stress is one of the most profound types of work related stress.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that, while you’re employed, you’re more likely to have benefits like in or out of network insurance for mental health that you may lose if you lose your job. “People tend to buy cheaper health insurance plans when they’ve lost some of their income” says Paul Burke of Burke Insurance Services “and that means that your next plan may not have the same mental health coverage. Taking advantage of the health insurance you have now is beneficial, so that you improve your mental health while you have access to coverage.”
Get Help You Need Today
Therapy now can provide you with long term benefits that improve your mental health not only now, but in the future. If you currently have coverage that covers your mental health, now is a great time to make sure you’re prepared for the road ahead. If you do end up suffering economically, you will have skills that will help you cope with the challenges, and if you’re living in fear, you can learn tools that will help you live a better quality life.
If you’re looking for a therapist to help you, please reach out to Right Path Counseling, today.
