10 Tips for Coping Emotionally and Filling Your Time While Unemployed

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jen Taylor
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jen Taylor on June 30, 2020
Naturopathic Doctor
Updated on June 30th, 2020
Unemployment Anxiety

With unemployment (and furloughs) on the rise due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be difficult to navigate the day and use time wisely. The stress that comes with the uncertainty of not knowing when you may be returning to work can take a toll on both your physical and emotional health.

So, to make the best of these trying times, here are ten tips to handle unemployment anxiety.

1. Make Your Days Count

Even if you are out of work, do your best to have a schedule with routines and tasks. Some people do well with a schedule that is organized by time and time slots, while others do better when tasks are outlined and prioritized. Highlight your most important tasks and goals and seek to accomplish them during the day.

Having meaningful accomplishments will not only move you towards your goals, but they also support your emotional health and wellbeing.

2. Set Goals and Steps to Achieve Your Goals

Consider what it will take for you to reach your goals. Who are you, and where do you want to go? Is there anything that you have to change? Are there any challenges that you have to meet or persevere through?

What are the things that you can do each day to move toward your goal? Your personal growth and habits will be more consistent by knowing yourself and gaining clarity on where you want to be in 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 15 years from now. 

[ReadFitness & Conditioning Goals ]

3. Read a Book

Reading daily has been shown to support mental function, enhance creativity, improve memory, and decrease stress. There are many books that can enrich your life, whether they are fiction, non-fiction, or books associated with your trade.

A good book will have relevance, can be read multiple times while providing insight, and contribute to personal growth.

4. Volunteer 

You may be able to find work with nonprofits such as your local food bank, church, school, youth sports organization, or government center. As a bonus, volunteering is a great way to engage your community, gain experience, and meet new people.

5. Spend Time Doing Your Favorite Hobbies

Art, music, sports, and the great outdoors can keep you active and help manage stress.

6. Get Clean and Organized

Having a clean home not only supports your health by decreasing environmental exposures and allergens, but it can also help you earn some cash. Spend a day to clean and organize your home and sell the items that you do not use on platforms like eBay, Offer-up, Craigslist, and Amazon.

[Also Read: Staying Clean During Chaotic Times ]

7. Take Time for Continuing Education 

Continuing education can help develop, maintain, and sharpen skills that will be needed when you get back into the workforce. There are many companies that have transitioned to online learning through webinars, recordings, and podcasts.

8. Exercise

Daily activity while being unemployed(1), will help keep you physically and mentally fit. Your program will depend on a number of considerations, such as goals, age, and ability. However, the concept is the same: daily movement is important to our physical and emotional wellbeing.

It is important to make physical activity a priority to manage stress and promote overall health. 

[Also Read: Which Is The Best Exercise For You ]

9. Update Your Resume 

There are many online resources to help you develop and refine your resume and cover letter for your next introduction. By preparing a professional resume in advance, you will be ready for your next interview or application process.

10. Take Time to Self-Reflect and Have Fun

Is now a time to dig deep and act with grit, or is it a time to rest and relax? Everyone’s situation is different. Self-reflection allows us to evaluate our circumstances and determine our course of action. Remember to keep things fun and find the good in every day.  


About The Author:

Jen TaylorDr. Jen Taylor is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor from Rochester, New York. Her interest in health and wellness stemmed from her experiences as a youth and college athlete.

View Comments (0)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Scroll To Top

Sign up for our Newsletter !
Get access to quality &
Natural Health Tips right from the Experts
Subscribe !
Send this to a friend