I don't profess to be a mathematical genius, but can someone explain to me how the following is arrived at?

For example: The government reports the unemployment figures dropped from eight percent to seven-and-a-half percent because the number of unemployment claims went down.  However, at the same time, it's reported that a figure many times larger than the above, either no longer qualify for unemployment benefits and/or have given up seeking employment.

Are they not unemployed?  If  so, are they in limbo and no longer count for anything?  If someone can explain this it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Bill Lee
Ocean View