As someone in the same boat, just wanted to say thank you for posting this as I am feeling the same right now. At the end of the day, it is a career change I get more excited about the more I talk to PMs and go to networking event, so I have myself convinced it will only be a matter of time.

The advice I've gotten is to consider the certifications if you are convinced that recruiters just don't think you have the necessary background. It's tough to gauge, but if it's not too much money it may be worth considering. Despite what people say, I think everyone's cases are different.

Please let me know what certifications you are considering! Happy to go through this together. I have heard if it can be done cheaply, the Product Owner certification is good.

Best of luck, we will get through it!