We heard today that Rhode Island’s unemployment rate dropped to 12.7 percent in November, though our economy still lost jobs. While it’s good news the rate dropped, clearly we have a way to go to a recovery.
What struck me most this week were two different polls released that really brought home the very human toll behind these numbers.
A New York Times/CBS News poll indicated that half of those who had lost a job had suffered from depression and/or anxiety. Job loss had an impact beyond the jobholder: about 40 percent noticed behavior changes in their children after the job loss. More than half borrowed money from friends or relatives to help them get by. More than half have cut back on medical treatment to save money.
Closer to home, a Brown poll showed that 75 percent of respondents had a friend or family member recently lose a job, and almost 95 percent thought the state’s economy was in poor condition.
Not a lot of bright spots in these numbers, but I take two things from them. Here in Rhode Island, we face some difficult decisions regarding the current deficit. But clearly, all our decisions should be made with the goal of rebuilding the Rhode Island economy, by both supporting our small businesses and working to attract new industry. We can’t continue to make piecemeal decisions.
And, as we prepare for the holidays, show a little extra kindness. Remember your neighbors who may be silently dealing with a job loss and struggling to stay afloat. If you’re able, give to local organizations that are helping Rhode Islanders through this difficult economic time. Together, I know we can support our fellow Rhode Islanders and work to create a better Rhode Island.