This is an examination of the emotional and psychological effects of job loss along with practical strategies for coping. All kinds of layoffs, from plant closings, work slow downs, corporate downsizings, and mergers and acquisitions are discussed, illustrated with case studies of Pittsburgh steel workers and Florida Space Coast engineers. The authors document the turmoil that often follows layoffs and the ways that many laid-off workers have succeeded in putting their lives back together. They also evaluate available support services, including extended benefits, outplacement, and retraining programmes.