Every day we read of more companies laying off workers. While job loss may have been a fear for many last year, today’s troubled economic climate has made it a reality for millions.

While losing a job may bring financial problems for most people, it’s also important to understand it can also bring significant mental and emotional stress.

For many people, losing a job brings reactions similar to the pattern experienced in the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. A first reaction is usually one of shock and denial, of being unable to believe this has really happened.

That...