Johnson

Already more than 1,000 Jamaicans from a number of sectors have lost their jobs and the labour minister has warned that more layoffs loom this year.

As the global financial crisis worsens, many persons have been grappling with a sense of fear and panic as 2009 commences.

However, psychologists and financial advisers say worrying is the last thing individuals should do if they find themselves without a job in the New Year.

"It is wasteful. It uses up energy that you could be spending actually addressing the problem," said psychologist Dr Asquith Reid.

Traumatic experience

Reid said losing a job, particularly after Christmas, is a very traumatic experience, especially for those with no other source of income.

He said individuals, however, should not be overwhelmed with anxiety but should instead approach the situation with a positive outlook.

"For some people, redundancy might be the best thing that could have ever happened to them because it gives them a chance to think outside the box," he said.

"There are a lot of things that persons might have wanted to do that they couldn't do while they were on the job. They could probably use that time to do some of those things," he added.

Reid suggests that individuals should take a break, go on a holiday or spend time with family instead of mourning the loss of a job.

"Use the time to reconstitute your other connections outside of work," he advised.

Orville Johnson, executive director of the Insurance Association of Jamaica, said workers whose positions have been made redundant should first safeguard their payouts.

"Not getting involved in any fast and lose schemes and do anything out of desperation," he said. "They should hold those funds until they find proper use for that money."

Do not be pessimistic

Johnson said individuals should also not become pessimistic about their job prospects.

"So they must first seek to get another job, if they can, and pursue that vigorously and confidently," he advised. "The thing to do in an environment like this is to have some kind of reserve that you can draw on."

athaliah.reynolds@gleanerjm.com

During difficult times, financial planning is more important than ever. Make the most of what you've got, tap all available resources and avoid making mistakes that could hurt you long after you've returned to work. Here are some tips on surviving financially and psychologically:

Look for alternative employment.

Put your monetary reserves in a safe place.

See what skills you have that you can utilise to earn income for yourself.

Don't allow worry or anxiety to cripple your efforts to move on with your life.

Use the time to pursue other interests outside the work environment. Pursue a hobby or an interest.

Speak to the family and children, let them know what is happening.

Seek counselling and financial advice.