Laid off 4 months ago. Countless interviews, no offers. Likely undiagnosed depression, but no insurance. It’s hard to convince people you’re smart when you feel more worthless and stupid by the day.

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It always feels like any second of the day you don’t spend on your resume/portfolio/interviews/searching is wasted, and you beat yourself up for it. Mercilessly. But the problem with that is, there are absolutely diminishing returns. Take some time for yourself and don’t feel guilty about it. Work out, read a book, play video games, anything that will take your mind off things and allow you a brief mental reboot. The problem with depression is, once you start to slip into it, it’s difficult to stop. But it’s very possible. And not as hard as you think. You could also try taking some 5HTP or St Johns Wort, which can be mood-boosters, until you land something and get insurance. The thing is, job hunts are discouraging by nature. Especially in this industry/time. So you should take any and every measure to keep yourself out of a true depression, because once you’re in it’s so so hard to get out, and it makes focusing on your career next to impossible. Sorry for such a long post. I’ve had two major bouts with depression in my life and i sympathize so much with the beginning stages when you’re not sure if you are or aren’t falling in. It’s not hopeless. You are smart. And as Gandalf the Grey once said, “this too shall pass.”

likeupliftingsmart

My sincerest thanks to everybody for all the support and advice. It’s awesome to see this kind of positivity in the bowl once in a while. I picked up some St. John’s Wort and even if it’s a total placebo, it feels good to even just *try* something that might make me feel better. To AD1, SD1, and anyone else out of work right now, I believe in you!

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so sorry to hear you're going through this op. i've been in a similar situation myself. don't be afraid to reach out to your friends and family for support -- they're there to help and you shouldn't have to go through this alone. the right opportunity will come before you know it. sending you positive vibes!!

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I have found personal development helpful. Podcasts, TED talks, apps (i.e. Headspace, Calm, Happy not perfect), audios and books from the library.

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You’re not worthless, OP. I’m so sorry you’re struggling. Your job is out there...keep your head up and remember that you are worthy and valuable and important.

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No having a job doesn’t mean you’re worthless! We’ve all been there. Something good will come, even though it’s hard to believe it now.

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Most therapists will take cash payment on a sliding scale based on your income or lack thereof. Just ask and see what you can work out.

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When I was going through something tough, I started listening to podcasts. Mainly because i was too lazy/depressed to do much more. Maybe that’s your cup of tea, maybe not. But never hurts to try. There are many career related ones: how I built this, second life, tony Robbins. Maybe they’ll help you feel motivated. Even the greatest people were fired before! I personally love Oprah’s Super Soul - she was fired early in her career! Go browse! Find one that works for you. It’s kinda like a free therapy session in a way. There are self care/spiritual podcasts out there too. When you’re depressed we totally get that you don’t feel like doing much. These don’t take much effort. Just press play and lay down for a little, relax. Change your outlook. Self care is so important. Once you start to take care of yourself, you’ll feel good and confident in interviews. There’s meaning in everything. What can this *temporary* moment teach you. It will be temporary, this process is hard, but temporary, and you’ll look back and see growth. I have faith in you!

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Sorry you are going through a rough time.

I was let go 3 months ago and share many of your feelings. I’m getting to the point where I wonder if I’ll ever work again, and frankly, if I even can anymore. I feel so tired and scared and discouraged every day.

OP and AD1 hang in there. I too was let go about a month ago without any rhyme or reason. Had the rug pulled out from under me. It’s rough but don’t get discouraged! And I know we’re a bunch of 🐠 but if you’re all in the NYC area and want to meet up for coffee or anything, share contacts or even just chat say the word!!

I got laid off and decided to try to start an agency instead of finding a job. I'd always wanted to. And I'll be damned if it isn't actually working. There are many paths forward.

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