Let’s talk about mental health and the job search

Mental health can be an often difficult and lonely experience. It can be especially lonely when searching for a job. So what can you do to stay motivated?

The feelings that can accompany a job loss are similar to the death of a loved one. Popularized by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, the stages of grief, denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance, although not wholly exclusive clients, can resonate with those experiencing job loss and the potential associated symptomology such as feelings of devastation, guilt, insecurity and shame.

Aside from dealing with these difficult feelings, it is important to stay as focused as possible during a job search.

Below are some tips to help:

1. Have a daily timetable for your job search. By mixing up your day with a variety of activities you won’t become demotivated, tired, stressed or anxious. Sitting at your computer for long periods of time will only make you feel fatigued. So try to focus on other things for example taking up a new hobby, sport, socializing but the main point is to break up your day into manageable segments of time. For example 20-30 minutes at a time in order to keep you interested.
2. Always follow up with recruiters. We live in fast paced times but it is also important that if you’re not getting the feedback call a recruiter. Always remember if you’re contacting them by telephone or email, be polite and courteous. It may be possible to schedule a meeting with them just to reiterate to them how interested you are in the post. Nothing shows enthusiasm more than going to meet someone face to face. By doing this you’re setting yourself apart from the competition by making the effort.
3. Managing stress is paramount during life but there are times that removing as much stress as possible should be a priority. Exercise is a must during these times and it’s free!  Walking or jogging around a park can reduce stress levels and increase your heart rate which in turn not only distracts you from the stress but produces happy hormones. Whatever works for you is the key.
4. Keep a record of applications because you never know when you may want to follow up with someone in the future.
5. Whatever you do, do not take it personally when you are rejected from a job. You have no idea why you were rejected but do not take it personally – it is a slippery slope. We all know that we can do the job much better than the person hired but again use this as a chance to explore with the recruiter what went wrong because it may be something that can be changed. All recruiters have a picture in their mind of the person they want. It may not be you but chances are that you can use this as an opportunity for feedback and use it to your advantage. It is no fun being turned down for a job but it is important to use every opportunity as a time to information gather about your application and to use this feedback for future reference.
6. When making a job application the key to a successful application is to explore the company inside and out. Use the internet, talk to people about who you know may be working for the same organisation and investigate the company so you know it inside out. Nothing impresses a recruiter more than someone who has taken the time to read up about them. Do your homework, be prepared and use your time wisely.
7. Network – yes it is an awful word and one that is probably used all too often but you never know who anyone knows and again it is about widening your options and job search. Try to not leave any stone unturned and talk to friends, family, and extended family about your job search and your skills because you never know.
8. Stay positive, stay focused, stay calm but above all be kind to yourself. There is a job waiting out there with your name on it. It may take time to find. The journey will be frustrating, anxiety provoking and stressful. However by taking good care of yourself both mentally and physically you will be able to cope and chance are will have learnt how to cope better in the face of adversity. The lessons and skills you arm yourself with now will stand you in good stead for the future.
9. Lastly visualise the job you want. By sending out a positive self belief and by visualising yourself in the job you want, someone somewhere will hear you. By giving yourself positive affirmations can put you in a more positive frame of mind.
10. And lastly remember that there are plenty of people out there you can talk to. If things become too difficult and you feel low, talk to your GP and ask to be referred to a therapist/counsellor.

Dr Julie Scheiner is the Clinical Director of Harley Street Group Therapy: Specialists in mental health services. For more advice Dr Julie Scheiner is going to be offering a series of interactive workshops about how to help with the financial difficulties facing people in the current economic climate.