It doesn't have to be that way though. Susan Heathfield, About.com's Guide to Human Resources, has excellent information on what companies should do - before they start reducing their workforce.
When layoffs are handled correctly, you may not have happier ex-employees, but you will have workers who understand why they have unfortunately lost their job. And, when it comes to understanding, it's important for anyone who is laid-off, to know what your rights are when your employment is terminated. If you've been treated unfairly, you do have rights.
If you want to vent, you can do so anonymously on Telonu. Laid off and employed workers can rate the layoffs at their companies on variables such as how they were handled, severance package, insurance, outplacement support, morale, job security, and whether they would consider working for the company again.
It's important to keep in mind that there are ways you can prepare before you get laid-off - keeping in mind that it's important to realize that your job might not be as secure as you think it is and you could unexpectedly lose it. There are also steps you can take to help get through a layoff, and to get on track to find a new job. Here's more on how to handle a layoff.