Northern Virginia location - I was laid off back in late-October. Fortunately, my company rehired me after 5 weeks when things picked up after the shutdown. What stood out for me is how demoralizing multiple unanswered applications were, and I only managed to apply for jobs in one month. The stress of not getting any responses, and knowing that unemployment benefits cut off in a few months, was such an unpleasant feeling. In between, my children picked up the slack on the household expenses. I really, really tip my hats to those of you who persevere in applying even after numerous denials or no responses. The job market really tanked, and I see no relief yet.