ABSTRACT
Stress counseling was provided to displace auto workers on a short-term basis to prevent the development of more serious emotional problems associated with longer-term unemployment. The peer counselors were a major source of referrals to the clinical social worker for stress counseling services. Health-promotion activities included dissemination of information regarding the prevention of stress-related illnesses. The Counseling Program for displaced Workers was established at the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, General Motors (GM) of California Retraining and Reemployment Program’s site at the Local 216 union hall in Southgate eight months after the GM assembly plant shut down. Community-organization efforts of the project focused on developing a network of social service and mental health providers in Los Angeles County. Stress counselors participated in job search workshops and job clubs that were held regularly at the union hall. The focus of hands-on activities was on building self-esteem, assertion training, stress management, and worker motivation.
