Grief. Guilt. Anxiety. You’re Not Alone—Here’s What to Do Next

For Those Left Behind

You might feel relief… and guilt. Maybe even resentment, confusion, or fear about what’s next.

What’s also common but rarely talked about: Workplace Survivor Syndrome. It's when guilt, anxiety, and hyper-competition kick in after layoffs—often leading people to go into “self-protection” mode.

Here’s how to take care of yourself—and your integrity—through the aftermath:

Acknowledge Survivor Guilt & Fear
It’s normal to feel both grateful and guilty. You may also feel unsure about your future. These feelings can coexist—acknowledging them helps reduce shame.

Don’t Isolate — Don’t Gossip
Fear makes people pull away. Some may even engage in sabotage or toxic gossip to preserve status. Resist this. It creates a culture of fear. Instead, show empathy and check in on each other.

Talk About What You’re Feeling
You don’t need permission to be honest. If leadership isn’t addressing the emotional toll, it’s okay to talk with trusted colleagues or peer networks about how this is impacting you.

Pause Before Overworking
Many respond to layoffs by doing more, staying later, or avoiding breaks. Be mindful of burnout. It’s okay to set boundaries and take care of yourself. Fear is not a good long-term fuel source.

Advocate for Psychological Safety
Use your voice to advocate for trauma-informed leadership. Ask for transparency, flexibility, and real support—not just productivity pushes.

Final Thought: You Are Not Alone. This Is Not the End.

Whether you’re grieving a lost job or carrying the weight of staying behind, know this: your feelings are valid. Help is available. Community can be found. Identity can be rebuilt.