AFAP WELFARE SUPPORT FOR RAL PILOTS
As the AFAP Welfare Director, I wanted to reach out personally to offer our support during this incredibly challenging time. I know that the news of your redundancy has been a significant shock, and I want you to know that you are not alone.
We are here to help you navigate through this and to provide whatever assistance you may need through our Pilot Welfare Representative Network and our Member Assistance Program.
Having been made redundant myself after 20 years with the same company in 2020, I completely understand what you’re currently experiencing. Whilst it wasn’t pleasant or easy, I learnt a lot from the experience.
The Emotional Impact of Redundancy
The emotional rollercoaster of redundancy is very similar to that experienced following the death of a family member or close friend. These emotions are normal, expected and form part of our coping and recovery mechanisms. You may experience the entire array of emotions, you may experience none, you may jump and switch between them hourly or daily, whilst some may be delayed and remain dormant for a lengthy period of time before presenting. We are all different, so our reaction to redundancy will also be varied. There is no right or wrong, and as such, one way doesn’t show strength and another weakness. Everyone will react differently and that’s ok. We are only human after all.
Understanding and managing these feelings is crucial to coping with redundancy and eventually moving forward positively.
When faced with redundancy, it’s common to experience a whole range of emotions. Initially it might be shock and disbelief, especially if redundancy came unexpectedly. Shock may quickly turn into anger and frustration and the feeling of betrayal, as you try and understand the perceived unfairness of the situation. Sadness and a sense of loss often follow, particularly if your job was a significant part of your identity. Some people may also feel shame or embarrassment, mistakenly believing that redundancy reflects on them personally. There may also be the “what if?”. If only I would have, if only we didn’t….none this may have happened and I wouldn’t be here.
Your redundancy isn’t your fault and there isn’t anything you could have done to prevent it.
So how do we cope with what we are feeling?
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s essential to allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise. Bottling up your feelings or pretending they don’t exist can lead to greater stress and anxiety. Instead, acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself time to process them.
- Talk: Talking to trusted friends, a family member, or an AFAP welfare representative can provide much needed emotional support. Sharing your feelings with others can help you feel less isolated and more understood.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial during this time. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly impact your mood and energy levels. Activities like regular exercise, yoga and meditation have been proven to help significantly.
- Stay Connected: Maintaining social connections with others is vital to good mental health. Pick up the phone or make time for a coffee and a chat.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling to cope with the emotional impact of redundancy, consider seeking help from the AFAP Member Assistance Program. They are here to help and are an invaluable tool in the understanding and recovery process.
- Manage Your Finances: One of the immediate concerns following redundancy is Finance. Financial stress can worsen the emotional impact of redundancy. Create a budget to manage your expenses and explore any financial support options available to you. This can help alleviate some of the immediate pressures and give you a clearer picture of your financial situation. Most financial institutions and other service providers can be very understanding and can offer temporary relief if asked (but you have to reach out to them for help).
- Set New Goals: Setting short-term and long-term goals can give you a sense of direction and purpose. Update your resume, start looking for new positions.
Redundancy, while unpleasant and extremely challenging, can also be a catalyst for positive change. By acknowledging your emotions and working through them, seeking the right support, and taking proactive steps, you can navigate this difficult period and emerge stronger.
AFAP members and their families can call our Member Assistance Program on 1300 307 912 at any time for free, confidential counselling with a psychologist, or speak with an AFAP Welfare Representative.
Captain Darren Gray
AFAP Welfare Director