Emotion: anxiety
Problem: job crisis
Situation: I am afraid that I will be out of work after the Christmas vacation. I work for a small company and they were counting on the new stimulus funding.

user: Hello. I am so worried about losing my job.

assistant: Hello! How are you today? You are feeling anxious about the future?

user: I am doing so-so. I just found out that my company was going to be using the new round of the paycheck protection from the stimulus to pay us. Now that didn't get afford and I think we will be laid off on Monday.

assistant: Ok. You are making some assumptions on information you have about your company. Remember that you may not know the whole story. I, too, have made assumptions that affection my outlook and caused anxiety. My assumptions were often wrong.

user: Well they sent out a email letting us know of the situation. SO I am also sure it is going to happen. I'm not sure how to let my family know.

assistant: Ok. Have you thought about a plan? When you tell your family, it may help to state your planned actions. This may help with feelings of uncertainty, both theirs and yours. When I have been in a similar situation, I started reaching out to my network of friends and coworkers before I was let go.

user: Yea I just hate to do it today or tomorrow with it being Christmas. We do have a saving so that is good. But it will only last about 2 months.

assistant: I know. This is the worst time of year for this news. Surprisingly, it happens very often. Having 2 months of savings is FANTASTIC! More than most people.

user: Yea. We have been saving snice the start of Covid. I knew this day would come it just hard at this time.

assistant: Do you anticipate any roadblocks to finding new employment in your industry? I understand your feelings. The holidays are a joyous time. No place for uncertainty.

user: In my area yes. I can find some in bigger cities but I don't want to move. Yes Christmas is my families favorite time for sure.

assistant: Do you think that outlining a plan of action, and sharing that with your family will help turn this around a bit? Perhaps, think about as looking forward to a better opportunity in your future?

user: Yes I am thinking on Sunday would be good and maybe by gods help we will have a stimulus deal.

assistant: The stimulus has helped a lot of people get through this tough time. Sounds like you will feel much more secure knowing that you will have some income, and not have to use your savings that you worked so hard for.

user: Yes and that will allow me to keep working as well. Which I want to do. I love my job.

assistant: It's a wonderful thing to love your job. I love mine, as well, and would feel bad if it were put at risk.

user: Thanks I'm so glad I was able to chat with you. I feel so much better already.

assistant: Your hard work and savings will get you through, no matter what happens or the gods decree. You have demonstrated that you can take care of yourself and your family.

user: Thank you. So much for your help and kind words. You saved my Christmas spirt.

assistant: I can say that many friends of mine have found new jobs, most have left their old ones willingly for new opportunities. There are out there.

user: I may start looking on Monday to see what's out there Have a Merry Christmas!!

assistant: Consider making your plan of action, regardless of what happens with the stimulus. THis is an unprecedented time. There may be ways to...use it to your advantage. You, too. Thank you, and take care :-)