Layoffs have created widespread mental health challenges, particularly in the Washington, D.C., area where federal workers and government contractors have been significantly affected. According to the National Institutes of Health, unemployment can have a negative effect on both mental and physical health. Licensed clinical social worker Mary Oborski notes that many who “defined themselves as a federal government employee, a nonprofit administrator, a government contractor” face identity crises when losing their position, asking “Who am I outside of this job?”
Grief and Job Loss
Job loss creates genuine grief similar to other life losses. Dr. Matt Glowiak, chief addiction specialist with Recovered.org, emphasizes that losing colleagues “can contribute to feelings of loneliness.” The grief process includes seven recognized stages: shock and denial, fear and panic, anger, bargaining, depression, temporary acceptance, and rejection. Each stage involves distinct emotional responses that can manifest as anxiety, financial stress, social isolation, and frustration during job searches.
Coping Strategies
Experts recommend 12 evidence-based coping strategies: mental preparation before layoff, communicating with a spouse or partner, seeking mental health support in advance (such as Employee Assistance Programs offering three to eight free counseling sessions), taking a short break to process emotions, establishing a daily routine, exploring financial assistance programs, networking, setting small daily goals, connecting with others, preparing responses to probing questions, reframing the layoff as opportunity, and being patient with the adjustment process. Establishing routines that include regular exercise, healthy eating, and dedicated job-search time helps maintain a sense of control and accomplishment during the transition.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://wtop.com/news/2026/05/managing-layoff-stress-and-mental-health-essential-coping-strategies-for-job-loss/