This scenario has played out for millions of Americans in the last two years, and it’s still happening. As of December 2010, the national unemployment rate had inched up to 9.8 percent.

The old days of working for one company your entire career have given way to shorter tenures with many different companies and even career changes.

Financial hardship is one matter, but job loss affects many aspects of your life, including your self-esteem, your sense of worth and purpose, daily routines, your social status, relationships and dreams for the future.

Here are some tips to survive this stressful time:

• Find out about your severance package (if any) and health insurance options.
• Contact your state unemployment insurance office to apply for benefits. It’s usually better to go in person even though the wait can be lengthy.
• Take a hard look at your finances and seek ways to cut back. You may need to contact creditors and set up a hardship plan.
• Talk candidly with family members so they understand your situation.
• Find out if there are support groups in your area for unemployed people. Or talk with a trusted friend, spiritual advisor or counselor.
• Don’t get ripped off by scams targeting desperate people offering bogus work at home opportunities or resume services.
• Develop a great resume. You’ll need several versions appropriate for different industries or jobs.
• Network, network, network. Use personal and online networking to let people know your marketable skills and the types of jobs you’re interested in.
• Register with online job search engines.
• See your doctor or a psychiatrist if you need antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication.