Losing a job is never easy. For many people, work is more than just a way to earn a living. It gives structure to the day, creates a sense of purpose, and often shapes how we see ourselves. When that is suddenly taken away, the impact can feel overwhelming.
It’s natural to experience a wide range of feelings: worry about the future, sadness over what’s been lost, anger at how it happened, or shame about how others might see you. These feelings can affect your body too. Sleep may become difficult, energy can drop, and stress or tension can build up. Research shows that job loss is strongly linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression.
When people find themselves in this place, it can be tempting to push the feelings aside and move on quickly. Sometimes that works for a while, but often the emotions don’t simply disappear. They can linger in the background, affecting confidence, relationships, and the ability to take the next step with clarity.
This is where therapy can help.
How Gestalt Therapy Can Support You
Gestalt therapy offers a safe and supportive space to talk about what has happened and how you are coping. The focus is not on rushing to solutions but on meeting you where you are right now.
Together we might:
- Explore the feelings that come with losing work, such as sadness, shame, or anger, so they feel less heavy to carry on your own.
- Notice how you are treating yourself during this time, especially if an inner critical voice has become louder.
- Pay attention to how stress and loss are showing up in your body, and gently find ways to bring relief.
- Reflect on the supports and strengths you already have, even if they are hard to see at the moment.
- Think about new ways forward that feel true to you, rather than jumping into something just to fill the gap.
Moving Forward
Job loss can be deeply unsettling, but it does not define your worth. With the right support, it is possible to work through the pain, rebuild confidence, and open to new opportunities and directions.
If you are struggling after losing your job and would like a space to talk, I offer counselling and psychotherapy here in Brentwood, Essex and online. Together we can explore what this experience means for you, and support you in finding steadier ground for whatever comes next.