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Pre-Coping: Grief and Fear Over Job Uncertainty in Today’s Economy

We’re living through unprecedented political and economic times, with changes that have been sweeping through Arizona – and the rest of the United States – in ways that are affecting everyone, even those that have thus far felt secure in their positions.

In a sense, many of us are struggling with the same type of grief that we might experience with job loss, only without necessarily losing one’s job or career. We’re experiencing grief not necessarily over what is, but what might be.

Grief is also a powerful emotion. It’s something that sits heavy on our shoulders, especially if we’re trying to take on the emotions of grief alone.

But what can you do?

How can you prepare for something that may or may not come? How can you cope with the grief and fear of loss and, should a job loss occur, how can you prepare for the road ahead?

The Benefits of Therapy for Political and Economic Grief

When we hear the terms “grief and loss,” we typically envision someone losing a friend or family member. The experience of grief, however, is not limited to loss of life. It can also occur as a result of a loss of community or a loss of connection and, of course, the loss of a career.

In this case, the loss of certainty that a person has in their career and the knowledge that losses are happening around them can cause them to experience a combination of grief and fear that is difficult to manage. Therapy can help. Therapy can provide you with:

  • Tools to Manage Grief – Grief therapy is extensively researched and specifically designed for this purpose – to help you manage your grief through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and general grief counseling.
  • Tools to Prepare for Grief – Similarly, should job loss occur, therapy now can help you be prepared for the wave of emotions ahead. Therapy is not only about addressing issues, it is also about preparing cognitively for stresses and emotions that may arise.
  • Anxiety Therapy – Part of this “grief” is caused by the anxiety you feel at the changes happening around us. Therapy can help you overcome these stresses and prepare for future ones and know how to make the changes you need to move forward.

The choice to engage in therapy is also a healthy acknowledgement that it is affecting you, just as it is affecting so many others right now. This uncertainty and this change can affect anyone, even those still employed, even those that otherwise feel secure in their careers and finances. There is nothing wrong with seeking help, and acknowledging that you need help is an important and beneficial first step.

Uncertain Times Call For Proactive Solutions

Whether your job is safe or in jeopardy, it’s natural to feel fear when there is turbulence in the world. But rather than wait until you have something to mourn, being proactive can help you manage those emotions now and be prepared for any emotions you may have in the future. Everyone deserves help when they need it, and no one should feel they have to wait before they get what they need.

If you need grief counseling in Phoenix for any reason, please reach out to us today.