Layoffs have claimed jobs from more than 2 million workers this year, including some 533,000 who lost jobs in November alone, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Mental health experts at ACI Specialty Benefits believe that many of these families are not only in financial crisis, but also in emotional crisis. Year end reports show that layoff support calls to ACI have more than doubled this year, as compared to 2007. To help cope during these difficult times, ACI is providing counseling and support services for layoff victims and survivors this holiday season.
“Job loss can be devastating, and many newly unemployed are left to cope with overwhelming feelings of humiliation, depression, and failure,” says Dr. Ann D. Clark, CEO and founder of ACI Specialty Benefits. “People are quick to panic, and that’s when the EAP can really make a difference by giving someone the resources and support to get back on their feet.”
ACI’s counselors are available to employees and family members in the weeks and months leading up to termination and up to 30 days after. In addition to helping people cope with the emotional stress of job loss, ACI Specialty Benefits layoff support includes financial planning advice and communication tips. Work/life clients also have access to a wide variety of outplacement services including career counseling, job searching, resume writing, and interview skills.
“It’s not just the employees who are laid off that need support,” adds Tori Barr, vice president of corporate relations. “The layoff ‘survivors’ typically need help coping with mixed emotions of relief, uncertainty and guilt.”
ACI Specialty Benefits works closely with each client corporation to devise a personalized workforce reduction plan that addresses the practical and emotional needs of the entire workforce and prepares employees for what lies ahead. “Effective communication, support and resources can help ensure that workplace morale is maintained through these difficult times,” says Barr.
ACI Specialty Benefits is a top ten provider of employee assistance programs, wellness, work/life, crisis support and management consulting services to corporations worldwide. ACI Specialty Benefits continually ranks in the nation’s top 10 EAPs by Business Insurance and was recently named a 2008 Benefits Superstar by Benefits Compensation Solutions Magazine. Founded in 1983, ACI has grown to international prominence, servicing nearly five million people worldwide with a network of over 40,000 providers. ACI remains a privately-owned specialty benefits corporation, headquartered in San Diego. For more information, visit www.acispecialtybenefits.com.
