If you’ve recently lost your job due to a disability, it can be a difficult time as you adjust to the new reality and try to move forward. You may be feeling overwhelmed, scared, or angry—all of which are normal reactions. But know that you don’t have to face this situation alone. Here are some steps you can take to get back on your feet and start rebuilding your life.
Connect With Your Community for Support
When faced with an uncertain future, having people around who understand what you’re going through can make all the difference. Look for support groups in your area that cater specifically to people with disabilities. You might also consider joining online forums where people share their experiences and provide advice about how best to cope with situations like yours. Additionally, seeking out mentors who have gone through similar experiences as you is a great way to gain perspective from those who have already been there before.
Utilize Available Resources
You may not realize it, but there are plenty of resources available that can help you in times like these—from legal guidance and financial assistance to job placement services and counseling programs. Reach out to the social services department of your local government or contact organizations like the National Disability Institute or the National Council on Independent Living for more information about what kinds of support they offer in your area.
Research Your Rights
If you feel like you were discriminated against or wrongfully terminated due to your disability, make sure that you understand all of your rights as an employee so that you can take action if necessary. In many cases, employers must abide by certain laws when it comes to their treatment of disabled workers; knowing these laws could be essential in protecting yourself from any potential legal action down the line. Work with a social security disability law service to help you if you feel like your rights have been violated.
Create an Action Plan
Once you’ve identified all of the resources at your disposal, it’s time to create an action plan that will help guide you along the path toward regaining financial stability and finding a new job opportunity that fits within the confines of your disability-related restrictions (if applicable). This plan should include short-term goals such as finding temporary employment opportunities or researching government benefits programs alongside longer-term goals such as obtaining vocational rehabilitation services or attending college classes in order to develop skills for a career change if desired. Having clear objectives written down gives structure and direction during times of uncertainty—and allows for tangible progress toward achieving them over time.
When it comes down to it, losing your job due to disability can be overwhelming—but rest assured that there are plenty of resources out there designed specifically for helping those in need manage their situation and move forward with confidence into their next chapter. By connecting with supportive individuals, utilizing available resources, researching rights-related issues, and creating an action plan tailored toward success—you will be well on your way to getting back on track. And remember: You don’t have to do this alone. There is help out there; reach out if needed.
Author information: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2.
