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How to overcome unemployment (here’s how to deal with it)

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Person packing personal items into a box, symbolizing job loss or unemployment.

Not having a job is terrible.

It feels like an endless struggle and can be unbearable at times. But things don’t have to stay the way they are…

Here’s how you can beat unemployment and get back on your feet.

 

How to overcome unemployment

The best way to overcome unemployment is by staying proactive, looking for work, and being open-minded about opportunities in the short term. While unemployed, look for work daily, ask around, and consider alternatives like part-time employment.

Additionally, South Africans who qualify should reach out to SASSA for assistance. Those who are over-indebted and qualify for debt help could apply for debt counselling (debt review) to reduce their debt instalments while they look for work.

 

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How to deal with unemployment

Dealing with unemployment can be very difficult. It requires patience and flexibility. Start by applying for financial assistance.

SASSA supports South Africans without income and can help cover basic needs while unemployed.

Then, create a budget and eliminate as many expenses as possible. South Africans with debt may qualify for debt counselling and could use the reduced debt instalment to lower monthly expenses.

SASSA support: South Africans who qualify can apply for social assistance through SASSA (South African Social Security Agency).

SASSA’s Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant provides temporary financial aid for basic needs to people without an income. This can help ease immediate financial pressures during the search for new employment.

Debt counselling (debt review): Debt is typically a big monthly expense. It’s important to manage it responsibly. Debt review is a legal process that can help. As long as there is some income or access to money, a debt counsellor can negotiate lower repayments with creditors. This way, more money will be available to cover other essential living expenses.

With some financial assistance in place, the next step is to find work.

Complete a CV update and start looking for jobs online. Platforms like PNet, Indeed, LinkedIn, and the Department of Labour’s job portal are great places to start.

Ask friends and family for referrals and start thinking of ways to earn extra money.

 

Understanding the effects of unemployment on mental and physical health

Unemployment takes a toll on both mental and physical well-being. Feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression are common, especially as financial pressure builds. 

Physical health may also suffer due to prolonged periods of inactivity or poor eating habits linked to stress.

The best ways to reduce the impact of unemployment on health are to find an alternative source of income, eliminate as many expenses as possible, keep applying for work, and seek out support.

SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) is an organisation in SA that offers free mental health counselling services.

Consider reaching out if you need it.

Maintaining a healthy mental space can help with the job hunt and help you get employed sooner.

 

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Try our debt reduction calculator to calculate your lower monthly debt instalment*.

*The calculation is an estimate actual amounts may vary.

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4 Strategies to overcome unemployment

There are several strategies to overcome unemployment. The four most popular strategies include learning and training, networking, taking a part-time or temporary role, and building a positive routine. These strategies generally improve the chances of getting employed again.

Four effective strategies to overcome unemployment:

  1. Learn new skills
  2. Grow your professional network
  3. Take on freelancing or temporary work
  4. Create a positive routine

 

1. Learn new skills

The job market is constantly evolving, and one of the best ways to stay competitive is by learning new skills. Take advantage of free or affordable online courses, particularly in high-demand industries like technology, marketing, or project management and use the extra free time to improve your CV and your worth in the job marketplace.

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, Grow with Google, or even YouTube offer lots of options to upskill or reskill yourself.

 

2. Grow your professional network

Networking remains one of the most powerful tools in job hunting. Try attending events, seminars, or even webinars. Don’t hesitate to engage on platforms like LinkedIn. Reach out to old colleagues, join professional associations, or participate in networking groups.

Put yourself out there. It can expose you to new job leads and some good advice.

(Tip: Check the Meetup app for business events in your area. It’s a great place to start.)

 

3. Take on freelancing or temporary work

Don’t be afraid to take a step back. Try freelancing or applying for temporary jobs. It is a practical way to stay financially stable while you look for the right job.

Consider driving for Uber, Bolt, Mr D Food, Checkers, Woollies, and Takealot, or applying for other delivery and service jobs.

If you’re skilled enough to freelance, use websites like Upwork or Fiverr to find freelance work.

It also helps fill gaps on your CV, showing that you remained active and productive during unemployment.

 

4. Create a positive routine

The emotional aspect of unemployment is often overlooked, but staying positive is essential.

Create a daily routine that includes time for job searching, self-care, and physical activity. Having a structured day helps prevent feelings of aimlessness and keeps you motivated to push forward.

For example, set aside specific hours each day to apply for jobs, dedicate time to learning new skills, and leave room for exercise. Even short walks or home workouts can help lift your mood.

Tip: Consider using free apps like Google Calendar to manage your daily routine and tasks so you stay organised and accountable.

 

In summary

Unemployment doesn’t have to be the end of the road.

With the right approach and a healthy mindset, anyone can get a new job and start making money again.

Focus on setting yourself up for success by updating your CV, applying for jobs, learning new skills, and networking. And don’t be afraid to take a temp job—it’ll help with the stress. Really. 

If you want to talk to someone about managing your debt, we can help. Try our online assessment at My Debt Hero to see if you qualify to reduce your debt.

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