Welcome, my name is Doug Truppe, and I am an artist representative for commercial photographers and directors in the global market. Our mission is to empower, elevate and foster a sense of community for those employed in the advertising industry. Focusing on mental health, our hope is to provide a forum and backdrop to discuss and share the challenges our industry is facing in a fast paced ever changing global economy. Concentrating on one’s well-being with the expertise of a mental health practitioner, Gabriel Most LCSW, RN, come join us as we explore and discuss managing mental health in the advertising industry. Ultimately, we are here to provide helpful resources and offer a friendly voice in challenging times.
Romance and Money - Surviving Job Loss as a Couple
Please join us as we address various issues and mental health challenges on a weekly basis creating a forum for communication and solutions with experts in advertising and mental health. In this week’s topic, “Romance and Money- Surviving Job Loss as a Couple” Doug Truppe and Gabriel Most, LCSW RN explore the dynamics and challenges unemployment can create in the context of romantic unions and how to address and manage job loss as a couple.
According to a recent study, individuals find it more challenging to discuss money issues and management than mental illness, addiction, sex, race and politics. It’s no wonder losing a job in the context of a romantic relationship can have huge ramifications for both the unemployed partner and the partner who must now cover all or most of the bills while additional money streams are created.
Here is what we know.
Key Points for Couples Managing Job Loss:
It’s All a Train Reaction- The way couples manage and discuss a job loss from day one, creates the tone of the experience. How unemployment gets managed as a couple.
Without the Foundation of Communication, Nothing Moves Forward- Resentments, anxieties, and fears can begin to take hold for both individuals in the romantic union because there is no formalized plan or goals.
Communication Strategies- Job loss can have a huge impact on self-esteem, purpose in life and self-identity. What techniques or behaviors are you using as a couple to promote open and honest dialogue? If it’s not being talked about chances are it’s not being addressed.
Budget Strategies- Without honest communication a budget will be hard to put in place.
As a couple how will you manage expenses, identify essential costs?
Can your partner foot your bills financially while you search for new opportunities?
How do decisions like borrowing money, tapping into savings/investments, and paying other bills get ironed out without a budget strategy? They don’t.
Emotional Support- Communication without a discussion on budgeting makes providing support to you partner challenging.
When you have “money” discussions, it becomes easier to feel supported and connected. It helps to minimize resentments and prevent misunderstanding.
Show your partner that you are there to listen by checking in. Stay positive. Stay in the solutions. You are in this together.
Show your partner that you are grateful for the emotional and financial support by renegotiating chores and responsibilities around the house. You might not be able to contribute financially but picking up the extra slack around the home can minimize the work stress for your partner who is temporarily carrying much of financial weight in the family.
What are your thoughts around unemployment in a partnership? We’d love to hear from you.
The following is a list of questions to facilitate further clarification and discussion:
1.What are your values around money- Do you live within or outside of your means? Do you like to save as much money as you can?
2. Are you aware of your partner’s financial situation? Do you know where you each stand financially?
3. Do you have joint accounts? Is this the best option for you as a couple? Why?
4. Are you aware of your partner’s financial goals and aspirations? Are you in agreement?
5. What specifically is your budget? What bills are essential, and which are expendable or can wait?
6. How are you doing as a couple? Is a couples therapist needed currently, or have you been able to manage the uncertainty of unemployment together as a couple?
Gabriel Most LCSW, RN www.GMostTherapy.com
Contact me to share your stories: hello@dougtruppe.com
