Surviving a Layoff

"If you don't have any friends, relatives or neighbors whose job is currently on the chopping block, it's probably because you don't have any friends, relatives or neighbors." - MICHELLE GOODMAN, ABC News

Not all disasters are natural. In 2008 many large financial companies have taken huge losses resulting in massive layoffs. The media industry is struggling and many others I suspect. As someone currently job hunting due to a layoff I can verify that this is a horrible time to be unemployed.

If you are in the same boat I am or if you're worried that you might be laid off, then I recommend the ABC News article, "The Ultimate Layoff Survival Guide."
The columnist makes several excellent suggestions for the newly laid off:

1) Reign in your emotions. (don't do anything stupid that you'll regret)
2) Grab your valuables. (when cleaning out your desk don't forget work samples, letters of commendation, and great reviews)
3) Don't leave benefits on the table. (know what termination benefits you're entitled to)
4) Take the government handout. (State unemployment benefits ain't much, but it helps)
5) Put a positive spin on it. (Enjoy the time off and don't criticize your former company)

Bottom Line
Don't downplay the first item on the list - emotions. I've gone through exactly what she's described: "peeved, depressed [&] incredibly freaked out". You only hurt yourself by being snappish and angry.