Mumbai:
With job losses in India mounting because of the global economic crisis, people who are caught in the eye of the storm are turning to helplines to find comfort in councellors. And those who have setup these helplines, the phone has not stopped ringing for them.
At a call centre in Thane, Mumbai, an increasing number of calls come from people who dread being laid off.
",Earlier, we had just two calls a year on this and they too were not factual. But now, it is close to two or three calls a month from those who have lost their job or fear a lay off,", said Sulbha Subramanian, a helpline counsellor.
Lata Misra lost her job three months ago. Chronic headaches and sleepless nights followed. But now, she has learnt to hope instead of panic.
",Earlier, I used to be with friends and work all day. Now, I am mostly at home. I can't watch TV all day or entertain myself. At the end of it, there is that stress that refuses to go,", she said.
Even those who have jobs are working hard not to get worried.
",My friend in the IT department lost his job. I saw him depressed and I have been thinking this could me and my life any day,", said Kanchan Misra, an employee in the Insurance sector.
Experts believe that younger professionals can tide over tough times. But those over 40 or with heavy financial commitments would find the going tougher.
Seeking professional help is not an option for many. Most people discuss this only with family and friends. And the feeling that many are sailing in the same boat is comforting.