NHL is back. Don't get me wrong, I am happy the Detroit Red Wings are back. But, at the same time, it's hard to feel sorry for millionaires fighting billionaires for more money when, in my workplace, two employees just lost their jobs.

There are many people who will boycott hockey after this, and I completely understand this. When we are in a recession, it's hard to sympathize with people, who are already rich, asking for more money.

With the rate of unemployment at 7.8 percent and with the beginning of the year, for many companies, being layoff season, it's easy to get depressed. For those still with a job, it's easy to become paranoid -- worrying that you may be next. In the blog Oakland County Business Update by Kathy Blake, she writes, "The effects of layoffs on surviving employees is reduced productivity and low morale."

And it's obviously depressing to be the one without a job. And it is definitely shocking -- to come in to work in the morning and, unknowing to you, it's your last.

Here are some ways to cope with a layoff, according to PsychCentral:

1. Give yourself some time and don't spout off the first words that come to mind. Sure,  you'll want to scream and post nasty comments on Facebook. But you'll also want to use this job as a reference and, someday, you'll want to be considered if the job does start to hire again. Don't burn bridges.

2. Go to the unemployment office. It will be less than what you were making, but it is a lot better than nothing and will help you make ends meet until you can find another job. Don't miss any resources available to you.

3. Don't blame yourself, thinking it's your fault. This has happened to hundreds of thousands of people within the last year alone. Layoffs aren't personal, although they often feel like they are. Look at it as a time to reassess your career path.

4. Did you enjoy your previous job? Make sure you look for a job you have an interest in doing and not just something that brings home the bacon. PsychCentral reports that, even in a bad economy, you need to consider your own long-term happiness.

5. Take a realistic look at your finances and budget to see how long it will last you. Look at things in your personal budget you can cut, like going out to eat and cable television. This will help you stretch your money while you are looking for a new job. Also, PsychCentral reports that borrowing from your 401K is usually less expensive than adding to your credit card debt. So that's also an option for temporary financial relief.

6. Hit the classifieds. Keep an eye out online and stop into businesses to ask if they're hiring. Looking for a job is your new full-time job. Dedicate hours each day to this.

7. Network. Join support groups, go to job fairs and join a club. I have found that the best way to find a job is to meet people in your field who can give you the inside scoop and recommend you.