Looking for a job is stressful. Looking for a job in the middle of a global pandemic sometimes feels impossible. That’s a normal reaction to these abnormal times. But there are ways to help cope with stress.
1) Take a break from the news.
It’s no secret that too much time reading the news can increase feelings of stress these days. There’s even a name for that feeling: “headline stress disorder”. So put down your phone, turn off the TV, and take a break from the news, even just for a few hours.
2) Know the facts.
Understanding basic facts about how the coronavirus is transmitted and ways to protect yourself can reduce your stress and empower you to make smart decisions that limit your risk.
This also goes for your job hunt. Stay safe during your job hunt by understanding: your risk factors, what employers should be doing to keep workers safe, and also which industrial jobs put you at higher risk of contagion.
3) Take care of your body.
Finding time to exercise or cook healthy meals can feel like a lot to deal with at times. Just do your best to take care of yourself. Here’s a few ideas to get started:
4) Make time to unwind.
It’s often hard to break cycles of stress and anxiety, especially when we’re cooped up at home. Try to make time every day for an activity you enjoy. Read a book, go for a walk around the block, or get a coloring book (seriously, they reduce stress).
5) Take control of your job search.
Looking for a job is stressful, even at the best of times. At Workstep, our job is to make it easier since you can fill out your profile once and use that to apply to as many jobs as you want. And our career coaches review each posting to make sure it’s active, so you won’t waste time applying to dead jobs.
6) Connect with others.
These days, connection looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s talking to your spouse or family. Or it might be a video call with a friend. But it’s important to talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
7) Get help.
If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others:
Remember that everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, but that everyone around you is also living through this moment in time. There are options out there to get the support you need.
