Dear MM,
There are many possible reasons for the difficulties you are having. At this time, you need to seek the services of a professional counselor and/or career coach. Counselors and coaches can help you identify what your challenges are, how to overcome them, and support you in that process. And often an objective third party is needed to see what is really happening.
Before you start saying that you can’t afford to get outside help, because I hear this excuse all the time, look into services available through your county mental health agency (check the yellow pages of your phone book) and local community colleges (call them). They often have services at low cost or they charge you according to your ability to pay. Where there is a will there is always a way. And some state nurses associations have career services available, too.
In the meantime, do some volunteer work (while working on getting your life and career together and finding paid employment) in a healthcare setting rather than not working, and join and get active in your state nurses association if not already a member. Because you are currently unemployed, you may be eligible for reduced dues. Read “Picking Up The Pieces of Your Career” www.dcardillo.com/articles/listing.html and “The Value of Volunteering” www.dcardillo.com/articles/volunteer.html. You need some help to get you life and career back on track. That’s why you wrote to me. So follow the above advice and seek the help and support you need. We all need a little help every now and then to help us navigate our way through life’s challenges. Getting help is a sign of strength and necessary for growth and stability.
Sending prayers and good wishes your way, Donna