Job search can be a very intimidating process. Many people handle this very differently and to some it ends up to be fatal. The case where one had a job already and lost is the worst type of damage and may lead to severe depression. However, psychologists have come up with measures as a result of their many researches to curb job search depression. For some, it has worked but it still remains a challenge to many. The cycle for a person who had a job and lost it is quite different compared to one who is searching for a job the very first time; just like any other kind of loss one has to get on and pass through the loss cycle which involves the below:

• Denial

This is the foremost reaction that one gets immediately after a job loss. This stage acts as defense mechanism to counter the overwhelming situation.

• Anger

Then after denial, reality sets in and one develops anger from the situation. This anger can be directed to family members, friends or even strangers. Resentment will also be directed to the employer.

• Bargaining

This when one feels the need to regain total control of the situation by thinking other alternative methods that would have helped in preventing the loss. This is a point of helplessness and susceptibility.

• Depression

This is the most dangerous stage. It can be severe if not properly managed or confronted.

• Acceptance

This is the most relieving and final stage of the cycle. This is point where one has accepted the situation and decided to let go completely.

For those however, embarking on this journey of job search for the first time their remedy might be quite easy. Though might be depressing one can combat job search depression through a variety of ways.

1. Re-evaluate your resume

This is relevant especially to the first timers who are job searching. Sometimes the problem might stem from your resume. The content and structure of your resume is very important while job hunting. Compare your resume with those people who are positioned highly in the corporate world and try making amendments.

2. Interact with other people outside your homestead

This is more like networking. You can never get to know of opportunities if all you do is sit in room with your computer and wallow in your sorrows. Try and get of the house and even attend seminars and conferences especially those related to your field of study.

3. Exercise

According to researches worldwide, exercise has been proven to cut off stress and rejuvenating one’s body and mind. It also provides a clear way to think straight and generate more ideas that can lead to something even better.

4. Create or maintain a routine

If you were once working then terminated, this therefore means your routine has been disrupted hence your mind routine as well. Avoid sleeping till late or waking up late just because you don’t have a job. Continue with the same routine to stabilize your mind. If possible, try figure out a business you can do and work on that until securing a job.

5. Read and write

Reading inspirational and motivational stuff will make you realize that it is not the end of the world. Reading helps to ground you while essay writing is one of the most therapeutic methods of fighting a job search depression. Keep a journal where you get to record the daily activities in relation to your job search and while looking back you get to realize that you are doing something about your unemployment status.

6. Give back to the community/volunteer

It may sound ironic where you are giving back to the community from which initially you are not getting anything at all in the first place. This is good especially if you are volunteering in a place where you have practiced on that field. This will give you additional experience which a certain employer seeks and also a way of honing your skills to be the recommended professional.

It is not so hard to curb depression it is all psychological after all and with all the above ways job search can be smooth sailing.