The “Un” unemployed
Posted by Becky Roe-Smith on 7/28/09 • Categorized as In the Trenches with Becky
The “Un” unemployed
I’ve created a new category in my world of helping people look for work…the “un” unemployed! Who are they? They are the working families and friends of the unemployed. I speak from experience as to the struggles THEY face as THEY watch THEIR loved ones go through the process of losing jobs and looking for work. My husband was laid off in June 2008 and is still looking for work. Seems strange and ironic that my job is all about helping people deal with barriers, find jobs and I struggle as I helplessly stand by and watch him.
He chuffs when I offer advice—I get that. He wants to do it his way, in his time.
When I run into friends they ask how HE is doing. Never me.
I’m frustrated and angry too. Where are the support groups for me?
Depression contributes an overall feeling of despair for the job seeker. Those “un” unemployed experience depression and anxiety too.
Why did I choose this for my post this week? Part therapy for me—part as a reminder to check with the “un” unemployed in the lives of my clients when I can. If I’m experiencing anxieties, anger and frustration, I can only imagine how families and friends of my clients may be feeling as they watch people they care for struggle.
What can we do? Should we change our methods? Should families and friends be included in new ways as we continue our work?
Your thoughts????
I’ve created a new category in my world of helping people look for work…the “un” unemployed! Who are they? They are the working families and friends of the unemployed. I speak from experience as to the struggles THEY face as THEY watch THEIR loved ones go through the process of losing jobs and looking for work. My husband was laid off in June 2008 and is still looking for work. Seems strange and ironic that my job is all about helping people deal with barriers, find jobs and I struggle as I helplessly stand by and watch him.
- He chuffs when I offer advice—I get that. He wants to do it his way, in his time.
- When I run into friends they ask how HE is doing. Never me.
- I’m frustrated and angry too. Where are the support groups for me?
- Depression contributes an overall feeling of despair for the job seeker. Those “un” unemployed experience depression and anxiety too.
Why did I choose this for my post this week? Part therapy for me—part as a reminder to check with the “un” unemployed in the lives of my clients when I can. If I’m experiencing anxieties, anger and frustration, I can only imagine how families and friends of my clients may be feeling as they watch people they care for struggle.
What can we do? Should we change our methods? Should families and friends be included in new ways as we continue our work?
Your thoughts????
Photo by Steve Polyak
This is so powerful. I know so many career professionals who spouses or adult children are unemployed and struggling. They too share stories of watching helplessly and wondering how to balance caring, helping and feel frustrated. And you are right, there is little support for these ‘un’ unemployed [perhaps a need you could respond to?]. Thank you for so honestly sharing your story, reaching out a hand to the ‘un’ unemployed, and reminding those of us in the field that this important group needs support too. Take care of yourself.
I couldn’t believe that I was reading this story written by someone other than myself. I also help individuals find employment and yet my husband lost his job July, 08.
All I can say is thanks for writing your version of my story. Good luck.
Sharon