How to avoid feeling crap when you don't have a job

By ReachOut Content Team
Published 05 September 2023

Being unemployed sucks. Even though you have so much free time, it’s hard to enjoy it. You might feel worthless or unproductive. Even worse, not having a paycheck can really have an impact on your wellbeing and lifestyle. Luckily, there are little things you can do to help you feel better.

Here are a few things you can do:

  • Keep yourself busy during the day, with hobbies and looking for jobs.

  • Focus on the little things you can do.

  • Get out of the house, even if it's just walking into town.

  • Talk to someone about it, like your family or a friend.

  • Allow yourself to have a movie day without feeling guilty.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help.

If you're still feeling crap

We understand that everyone's experience of not having a job is different, and yours may be very different to the young people featured in the video. If none of the tips in the video feel right for you, we suggest you see a mental health professional to get personalised help.

What can I do now?

Tagged in

Article
Study, work and money
Work
Coping
ReachOut home
        Aboriginal flagTorres Strait islander flagRainbow flagAustralian flag

        We acknowledge the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. We recognise connection to Country as integral to health and wellbeing.

        We acknowledge people with lived experience of mental ill-health and recovery and the experience of people who have been carers, families, or supporters.

        ReachOut values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

              Aboriginal flagTorres Strait islander flagRainbow flagAustralian flag

              We acknowledge the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. We recognise connection to Country as integral to health and wellbeing.

              We acknowledge people with lived experience of mental ill-health and recovery and the experience of people who have been carers, families, or supporters.

              ReachOut values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

              © ReachOut Australia 2024