By Megan K. Scott, Associated Press Writer

NEW YORK (AP) — Laura Rivchun lost more than a job when she was let go from a staffing firm in September.

She lost lunches out with her co-workers, giggling during meetings, going out for after-work drinks — the kind of camaraderie that working in a small group builds.

"It's very isolating when you have been laid off," said Rivchun, 58, of New York, who was an executive recruiter and worked closely with three other people. "We had fun together. We were of like minds. All of us worked just as hard as the other."

Mass layoffs across the nation are creating another test of true friendship: can people who become friends through work remain friends when one or both are gone?

"This is going to be a very dramatic test," said Jan Yager, a sociologist who is an expert on work and relationships. But the friendship can pass.

A guide:

FOR THE SURVIVOR

TRY NOT TO FEEL GUILTY: It's natural for you to feel some survivor's guilt, said Katherine Muller, a psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. But it is important to remind yourself that you did not have a role in the decision, she said.

If it so happens you did, do not gloss over your role in the decision, said Muller. Say something like: "I was a part of the committee that made this decision and I am so sorry that this is difficult for you."

BE A GOOD LISTENER: Don't take it personal if your friend vents about the company, said Yager. Sometimes people need to see the situation as bleak to say, 'I really didn't like working there anyway.' Validate how your friend feels without bad mouthing the company, said Muller.

If your friend continues to complain, change the topic. But realize that the layoffs may be the only thing on their mind, she said.

BE KIND: Don't complain too much about your day, at least your day had a job in it, said Timothy Keiningham, co-author of "Why Loyalty Matters." Share professional leads, offer career coaching, mentor, encourage and support.

Small acts of kindness will go a long way in reminding your laid off friends that you are there for them, he said.

MAKE NEW WORK FRIENDS: If you are feeling lonely without your best work buddies, reconnect and build on existing connections, said Muller. Ask a work acquaintance to lunch or out for a walk, for example.