Dr. Sanjay Gupta on the Stress of Job Loss

From WWSG thought leader, Dr. Sanjay Gupta: Cuts to the federal work force have been in the headlines recently, including thousands of jobs lost this week among the staff at the National Institutes of Health, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Food and Drug Administration.

The economic uncertainty of job loss can certainly affect people physically and emotionally, but the size of the effect can in part be based on outlook.

A person’s perception of adversity is key, says Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, a professor of social work at the University of North Dakota. He points to research showing that how you perceive your financial situation can actually do more harm to your health than the number in your savings account.

He notes that if you see job loss as a temporary setback and can stay calm — instead of viewing it as a disaster that can trigger stress and depression — you’ll probably stay healthier overall.

Anvari-Clark and his colleagues surveyed more than 27,000 American adults about factors that contributed to their health and financial decision-making.

They found that how a person perceived a drop in income mattered 20 times more than the financial change itself.

The power of perception is really striking. To help you maintain a positive outlook, he says, it is key to keep up with healthy habits like exercising to reduce stress and staying connected with friends for emotional support.

He also suggests volunteering or trying other fields of work. It doesn’t have to be a permanent job, but staying engaged in these ways can help you maintain networking skills and give you a fuller sense of control over what’s happening in your life.

Job loss can be difficult, but as he points out, losing your health can be even worse.

Dr. Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon and a dedicated global journalist who is passionate about inspiring Americans to lead healthier, more active lives. His devotion to reporting from war zones and natural disasters as well as on a range of medical and scientific topics has distinguished him as an integral reporter for audiences worldwide. Dr. Gupta’s public speaking appearances are exclusively managed by Worldwide Speakers Group. To host him at your upcoming event, contact us.