Everyone handles job loss differently, and you're not alone in what you feel.

Here are some steps to help prioritize your well-being following a layoff or furlough: 

1. 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.
2. Talk to your family and friends. Enlist their support as soon as you're able.
3. Maintain good exercise, nutrition, and sleep habits. You're likely to experience some disruption, but maintaining your overall health helps you manage challenges.
4. Recognize grief reactions. Losing your job can lead to a grieving process or trauma reactions that are common after a crisis.
5. Use all available resources. Seek help finding a new job, consider counseling with the UI Employee Assistance Program, learn about financial well-being services, and other layoff resources provided by the university.
6. Seek professional help as needed. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional if you can't shake negative feelings, have persistent trouble sleeping, or experience worsening depression, anxiety, or hopelessness.