The impact of unemployment on mental health
Unemployment is not only due to financial problems; The effects of job loss also extend to mental health issues.
Many people are quick to complain about their jobs, but even if they don't particularly enjoy what they're doing, work often comes with benefits that people don't realize until they lose their job.
The impact of unemployment on mental health
Losing your job can be an emotional roller coaster ride. What starts out as desire and hope for a new job can turn into bitterness, sadness, and anger over time, but without any luck. Especially when people are unemployed for a long time, the impact of unemployment on mental health will be more serious, and even develop into mental health disorders.
Lose purpose
One of the many psychological effects of being unemployed is that you often feel like you no longer have a purpose. Work gives people meaning in their lives by making them feel more productive and contributing members of society. When some people lose their jobs, they may also lose this sense of purpose. They may feel useless or empty until they are able to find a new position. These feelings are sometimes a precursor to the development of depression.
frustrated
Depression is common among unemployed people. The initial effects of job loss may make people feel sad and upset, but as time goes on and desperation to find another job may set in, the blues may get worse. A survey of U.S. citizens found that those who were and are twice as likely to be enrolled in a depression treatment program were unemployed. This bias has only gotten worse over time, with 19% of people who have been unemployed for 52 weeks or more receiving treatment.
Insecurity
Work may be how some people define success, and without it, they begin to feel like a failure. In addition to being unable to provide for their families, this mentality can lead to self-doubt and insecurity in some people. The longer they wait to find a new job, the worse the blow to their confidence.
anxiety
Anxiety is another common effect of job loss. When comparing unemployed men with employed men, anxiety levels were significantly higher in the non-employed group than in the employed group. It's natural to worry about finances after losing a job, but over time, these worries can escalate and require anxiety treatment.
irritability
All of the above plus the frustration of not being able to find another job can make people angry and irritated. They may be more likely to lose their temper with loved ones or become angry over small things that they have ignored in the past.
Not everyone copes effectively with mental health issues, especially when they are bored at home during their normal workday. Instead, these people may turn to drugs or alcohol to make themselves feel better. Over time, this bad behavior can develop into a substance abuse problem, leading to more problems.
Not only can losing a job affect your mental health and behavior, the mental health effects of job loss can also ripple through to your spouse and family. Anxiety, depression, anger, and hopelessness are all emotions your loved one may be feeling at this time. Especially if the effects of losing your job are dramatic and noticeable, your loved ones may be experiencing these negative emotions along with you. Over time, your poor mental health can cause rifts in your family that are difficult to heal.
The impact of job loss on mental health can be scary and overwhelming. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, whether related to unemployment or not, get help.
