Use this checklist to address well-being priorities following a layoff or furlough:
- Take the time you need to process the news. You may feel any combination of common reactions. As best you can, think of losing your job as a temporary setback.
- Talk to your family and friends. Enlist their support as soon as you're able.
- Maintain good exercise, nutrition, and sleep habits. You're likely to experience some disruption, but maintaining your overall health helps you manage challenges.
- Recognize grief and trauma reactions. Losing a job can lead to a grieving process or trauma reactions that are common after a crisis.
- Use all available resources. Look to job-search help, Employee Assistance Program counseling, financial well-being services, and other resources provided by the university.
- Seek professional help as needed. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if you can't shake negative feelings, have persistent trouble sleeping, or experience worsening depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms.
Explore additional resources as needed:
Well-Being at Iowa
Comprehensive directory of resources that support the mental and physical health of faculty, staff, and students.
Sleep Info and Resources
Guide to sleep monitoring apps, sleep-related counseling, and steps you can take to improve your sleep habits and quality.
Stress and Resilience
Guidance on how to handle stress and build resilience when faced with adversity.