Last Update: February 04, 2023, 08:29 IST
You may be experiencing a range of emotions during and after a layoff at your company ends.
It can feel awful to learn that you’ve been through these layoffs with fellow coworkers—or, in the worst instance, someone you fired. Here are 5 strategies for dealing with “leaveoff survivor’s guilt”.
People around the world are witnessing massive changes in their organizations. Many people are afraid that they might be the next layoff. This time of uncertainty can usher in a lot of uncomfortable feelings. Still, it might not be as bad as surviving the layoff. Knowing that you got away with it unscathed while your co-workers, worst case scenario someone who was let go, can bring on a lot of guilt. It can have a significant negative impact on your mental health, including hindering your productivity.
Here are 5 ways you can deal with layoff survivor’s guilt:
accept your feelings
There are a lot of emotions that can stir you up during and after a layoff ends in your organization. These can include guilt, sadness, fear, and perhaps even relief. Although you may want to remain calm and continue to act as if nothing unusual is happening around you, it is necessary to pause and acknowledge what you are feeling. Like any difficult situation, if you keep your emotions bottled up, they will surface later. However, it may not regenerate most productively.
set better boundaries
Focus on setting your boundaries better. Being left behind means you’ll be shouldering a lot of the responsibility that once belonged to your former co-workers. Make a list of your current responsibilities and set priorities. Take on tasks that you can manage and that align with you. Trying to take on more responsibilities than you can handle will not work in your favor and will affect your mental health even more.
Read also: World Cancer Day 2023: Is stress closely related to cancer?
connect with colleagues
You can deal with guilt by reaching out to your former co-workers. Let them know that you are ready to extend your support in every possible way. You should also take time to connect with colleagues in your organization right now. Building your own support network is important for taking care of your mental health.
take the pressure off
This is especially necessary if you are a manager responsible for layoffs. Downsizing automatically means that your organization will see drastic changes. It will also have an impact on everyday work. This can create built-in pressure on your employees to function as normally as possible. However, this is neither realistic nor compassionate. You might want to focus on maintaining relationships with your current employees and making sure their productivity doesn’t hinder.
Read also: Are persistent indigestion and gastritis early symptoms of stomach cancer? expert answer
talk to trusted people
If you’re finding dealing with a layoff particularly difficult, you should consider seeking professional help. Check with the human resources department to see if your company can arrange this for you. Alternatively, you can seek therapy on your own or start by talking to someone close to you that you trust.
read all Latest Lifestyle News Here