I had a similar experience when I lost my job in May. After years of what you mentioned, this time seemed to just turn me away from the job scene period. I am also in my early forties and know I have a lot to offer employers. I've always been the breadwinner, sometimes working as many as 3 jobs at once. My husband is really struggling with the fact I now work 24 hours a week instead of 50-60. I say I will get another part time job weekly, but the truth is, I'm tired of the job-go-round. Besides, time for him to do the heavy lifting for the family for awhile! Maybe we're just getting too old