*This post references depression caused by the stress of losing a job. These tips in no way substitute for medication when medically necessary and the advice of a physician or licensed therapist. Having said that, they are practical tips for anyone that hopefully help through a tough situation.
I listened to George W. Bush speak to the nation tonight. He said recession twice but I have heard many intelligent people predicting depression for our economy. Ever since I was a young man in high school I have pondered the trillions in our deficit. I have always wondered: “When will it all collapse?” I really hope that time isn’t now. Like a baby falls asleep quickly on freshly laden baby bedding, I hope we as Americans have not fallen asleep and accepted a lie.
I TIVO-d the speech and now my wife doesn’t want to hear it. She seems to feel she’s heard it all before. I hate to say it, but this might be different. I can tell you with certainty that real estate will never be the same in my lifetime and possibly in my kids’ lifetimes. I wouldn’t recommend it as a career to anyone.
But this site isn’t about politics, it’s about psychology so let’s examine what you can do to avoid “the great depression” yourself should you lose your job:
1) Don’t panic or despair. The creative centers of the brain are not free when you are in this state. Focus inward and meditate. Develop a mantra to keep yourself calm and mellow. In this place you can find creative solutions.
2) Go back to college. These days the best degree to have is a trade or certificate. An advanced academic degree will prove more useful in an education career. Look into financial aid, it’s out there.
3) Take a walk every day. this will help you sort through things.
4) Limit TV time. Use the time to read self-improvement books and make lists. When you get a job, you can go crazy on the tv watching :)
5) Call loved ones just to chat. This gives health to your bones.
6) Create accounts at all the online jobsearch companies and put yourself out there.
- Yahoo! Hot Jobs
- Monster
- other local
Stay positive whatever you do. Remember your mind is a fine instrument. The treasured memories of your life are stored there. Take good care of it and it will take good care of you.
Hi. I'm Damien Riley, MA.
4 Comments
I don’t think that medication is the way to go when treating depression. They will mess you up more in the end.
I respectfully disagree. Meds help millions and people should consider natural and/or medical options to treat their depression. Most importantly, they should trust their doctor over random websites and give the doctor all the best and truthful data they can.
Great post. I would like to add continuing to take good care of yourself. Get up at your usual time. Dress nicely and do the whole make-up bit as if you were going in to work. That is crucial in keeping morale up. Also, reading positive affirmations just before you go to sleep may sound cheesy, but it they do their magic while you sleep and you will wake up in a more positive frame of mind. Medication is an option if the depression is severe. It has its place. But is shouldn’t be your first option.
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Excellent comment. Most doctors will suggest lifestyle changes before drug therapy. But the brain is a very complicated instrument. Depression has been known to cause suicide aso I am very clear on this blog that it is quite okay and acceptable and not “wrong” to take medication. It is my stance here. My personal belief is along the lines of what you are saying but for many people that just doesn’t work.