Key points

Social support buffers the emotional effects of job loss, and spouses can be an important source of support.

It's important to understand individual and societal factors affecting your spouse's response to job loss.

You can show support through self-care, providing your spouse agency, and sharing activities and feelings.

Recently, my husband lost his job, and the timing was terrible. We had just purchased a new home in need of major renovations, and of course, we were running on a tight budget. We were paying a mortgage in addition to the monthly rent on our previous home and the renovation expenses.

While not life-threatening, his unemployment was stressful for both of us. I’ve worked with clients facing similar stressors from being laid off or chronically unemployed.

I

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