Losing your job

Work is a potential source of worry. This is not only due to the fact that we need it to earn money to support ourselves but also because a large part of our identity and self-esteem is wrapped up in our jobs. we also develop friendships around work. The fact that there are now fewer jobs for life, more contract work and self-employment increase worry.

Communication is very important. If you have any concern at work, it is often better to discuss them with your manager, a colleague you can trust or personnel rather than keeping them bottled up say a stress management consultant, Caroline Raymond.

Taking action to improve your job prospects will also help to ease any worries. make sure your CV is up to date, learn new skills, take advantage of networking opportunities and keep abreast of vacancies. Finally, maintain a balance in your life so that your job isn't the be-a, and end-all. Don't lose touch with friends, keep up hobbies or simply distract yourself by reading a good book int he evenings.