The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com

The loss of jobs all over the country is not only impacting the economy and our wallets - but the collective mental health and relationships of our society.  If your partner has recently lost their job, they’re possibly in a vortex of swirling emotions and lack of stability as they try to wrap their brains around, “what next?”

Here are some ideas around how to be supportive to a partner who has recently lost their job:

• Listen – and don’t offer advice unless asked.  He / she may just need to be heard as they vent their frustrations or fears.
• Let them have their emotions.  A range of emotional responses is normal in times of crisis.  Allow this to happen (as long as you aren’t the target of misdirected rage)
• Step up support with the things you can help with.  If your partner is overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions, you can assist them by playing a supportive role behind the scenes.  For example, let the small things go like dirty dishes, clothes left on the floor, etc.  Just pick up behind them a little without complaining until things improve.

Difficult times have a way of passing, though it sure is hard to know that you’re in one!  If your partner stays in a funk for longer than might be considered  a normal reaction, keep your eyes peeled for signs of clinical depression. Some of the symptoms are depressed mood most days, diminished interest in activities, sleeping too much or too little and fatigue almost every day.   

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Lisa Brookes Kift is a couples therapist, author and creator of The Toolbox at LisaKiftTherapy.com: A Resource for Emotional and Relationship Health.  See more of Lisa’s relationship tips and tools.