Etiquette for 2009: Don't Mention Your Job

The onetime small-talk staple “So, how's the job going?” is liable to get you into trouble these days, reports Newsweek. Rising unemployment is straining friendships as the haves learn to interact with the have-nots. Among 30- and 40-somethings, discussing luxurious vacation plans is not a good idea, and for the 50-plus set, retirement talk is strictly off-limits.

But not talking about work can be dangerous, according to some doctors. “Right now, it feels really bad to complain about work, so more of my patients are turning to a few extra cocktails alone, or prescription-drug abuse at work,” said the clinical director of the New York Center for Motivation and Change. His advice? Turn to co-workers—at least until they (or you) get laid off.