The job market in 2025 is already proving to be a continuation of 2024 — a battlefield. Massive competition stemming from the post-COVID mass layoffs, increased automation, and economic uncertainty have made layoffs a harsh reality for many. While job loss always brings financial strain, its impact on former employees’ mental health is often very underestimated. Feelings of professional inadequacy, anxiety, and even depression are common, leaving individuals struggling to navigate this challenging transition.
I was laid off myself. The struggle is real. People who have been at the same company for many years may find their skills outdated in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, while others face age discrimination, or a sheer lack of available positions in their field. This perfect storm of challenges can leave individuals feeling lost and demoralized. It doesn’t have to be that way for everyone. There are ways both employers and those being laid off can remove some stress.
Here’s just a few ways to cope with job loss and safeguard your mental wellbeing in today’s competitive environment:
1. Employers Can Embrace Modern Outplacement: Gone are the days of generic group coaching workshops and “Bootcamps” that promise to speed up job searches. Modern Outplacement Services offer personalized career counseling to assess where each individual is during their grief process, clean/simple resumes, interview coaching, social profile optimization, networking, and resources that are industry specific. It’s a compassionate lifeline employers should be offering departing employees, and can also protect your employer brand.
2. Update Your Credentials: In this job market, you “should always be looking.” Investing in up-skilling or re-skilling can position your future-self for a variety of roles. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer a massive wealth of courses to boost your skillset and make you more marketable. Don’t underestimate the power of new certifications to demonstrate your expertise in high-demand areas.
3. Build a Trusted Inner Circle: There’s a LOT of awful career advice out there from very inexperienced, self-proclaimed “experts.” Be careful who you trust. Surround yourself with a small supportive network. This could include former colleagues, close friends, and a few career mentors who can offer honest advice, encouragement, and valuable connections.
4. Prioritize Self-Care: Job loss can be emotionally draining. Prioritize your mental and physical health. We only get one body and one mind. Exercise regularly, eat nutritious food, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation when you need it. Consider mindfulness practices or seeking professional counseling if needed.
5. Leverage Your Network: Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to your existing contacts. You never know what opportunities may arise from one simple conversation.
6. Reframe Your Narrative: View this period not as an ending, but as an opportunity for growth and reinvention. Explore new career paths, consider entrepreneurship, or focus on personal projects you’ve been putting off.
7. Do NOT Give Up: The job search can be long and arduous. Some estimates say the average job search is now over 3 months, but we’ve seen many go 4-6+. Work your own plan. Maintain a positive attitude, celebrate small victories, and remember that perseverance is key.
Layoffs are extremely tough, temporary times in our careers. Everyone deals with them differently. But, with the right resources, trusted inner circle, and healthier mindset, you can navigate this challenging phase and emerge stronger and more resilient.