welcome to pc, hikinrock! glad u found us.
i find anything i do works better with a list of priorities. since you suffer from the same things i do, here's what i feel may help you.
to help you overcome how you're feeling an asset list will help. things that you know about yourself that are good selling points for becoming employed. i know, it's not as easy when you feel down, but make every effort to do this. you will need this list later.
make a goal of how many contacts you will make every day. follow thru and don't allow yourself to get discouraged. do the goal set number.
before you have an interview/or apply read your asset list. this will remind you of how marketable you are. this can include-helpful, on time with tasks, friendly, good work history, etc.your interview will reflect how upbeat you are.
you might even want to have some letters from previous employers of their comments about you to put with your application or resume. i'm not sure of the work you can do but bragging rights are ok.
before you approach the propective employer, take a deeeep breath and slowly let it out. this will help the anxiety level.
follow up with all contacts/interviews you do. usually 3 days is good. if they haven't hired anyone yet this may give you the advantage.
network thru friends who may know who is hiring.
walk into any store and ask who is the manager. then see if he is available to chat with you for a few, it's an informal how-de-do.
but the most important thing i can say, imho, is that you get your head set in the right direction. give yourself permission to feel discouraged when you get home but while out, put on a smile, read your asset list, and put your best foot forward!!! a positive image goes far.
for every no you get, know that the odds are gaining in your favor for a yes!
now u ask how do i know these things...my background is in upper corporate management. i hired ppl all the time. your background will certainly "get you in the door" but your attitude will "make the sale"!!! good luck and i hope this helps you!
ps sorry for the long post...i got carried away