What keeps you going?

I have had some major depression and anxiety problems in the past. I went and saw counselors and doctors, but really how I got past it was changing my mindset. I kept being faced with challenge after challenge and I just had to learn to look at every challenge as an opportunity to become stronger. I tried medicine and it didn't really work like I expected. It just kind of made things a little more even and didnt really take all of the depression and anxiety away. One other simple thing that helped me is just remembering that every day has to end. When the day is over, you go to bed and wake up with a fresh opportunity. You get one life man, live it to the fullest and accomplish your goals!

The love of Christ and my family and friends.

If you can, give your resume and cover letter to someone directly (other than the "Human Resources" folks). You can often side-step the whole resume-screening process by just getting your resume to a decision-maker right from the get-go. On your cover letter, explain how your experience relates to the responsibilities and duties of the job you are seeking. That's for the short-term.

Long-term, you consider learning how to code (program a computer). Attending meet-ups, you can meet people in the industry in your area. Learning to code is not an overnight thing, but it is something that you can get the basics on by self-study.
Here is the Python tutorial: https://docs.python.org/3/tutorial/
Here is the Java tutorial: https://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/
Here is a JavaScript tutorial: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn/Getting_started_with_the_web/JavaScript_basics

Java is the harder route and not as much fun. I code in Java for my day job but I strongly prefer Python. Java is one of the most used languages in the business world. Python is on the way up, but largely it is popular with machine-learning work.

JavaScript is the language of front-end logic and there is some back-end JavaScript as well (NodeJS). I don't focus much on front-end work, but even I end up having to do JavaScript a few times a week.

Anyway, as a long term project, employment prospects are good for software developers and will probably stay that way for a long, long time.

I just shot you a note on LinkedIn. If you are still in Central Texas there are a ton of resources available to assist in the transition. Look up Centurion Military Alliance and plan on attending one of there events.

SPC Shaun Boykin Staying extremely busy should help because you will not have the time to focus on negative things. Change your routine. Consider taking only night classes and working a day job, or vice versa, so that it is easier to find the right job. Also consider volunteering for a cause that you can relate to. Have you talked to anyone about your depression? We all wish you the best!

What are you going to school for? Have you checked with the school for part time employment opportunities? We are moving into Holiday season and around here, virtually every major retailer is looking for help. Maybe you could find something there?

SPC Shaun Boykin: Shaun, you have my love and my prayers, my fervent prayers and my profuse love. Hope that helps you. -Margaret

SPC Shaun Boykin 1st off, do not be ashamed to seek out help for depression. At one point or anither we all have or will. Please never feel less because you are suffering. Also, I hope you have someone who is there for you when times are getting though. I am not in the civilian sector yet, but I will soon. I have heard from many different people that there are job resources for prior service, you just need to find them in the net. Have you tried LinkedIn? Usajobs.gov? Good luck in your future endeavors. Stay strong!

SPC Shaun Boykin People notice me talking to myself.

Depending on your situation seek professional help. Many local agencies are available - reach out to them!

I ofttimes reassure myself that: “it will all work out”, “no sweat GI”, “you did a great job”, “it doesn’t really affect me, so what!”, “they wouldn’t do what I would advise-shaddup’!

Mantras are tools , we sometimes need one to reconcile situations beyond or control.

My brother was out of work for 3 years before his current job. He too was depressed and feeling a little empty. I am a strong believer that man was not meant to be idle. Find somewhere to work, whether it be volunteer or for pay. When he finally got a job he came to let me know of his mental state improvement. Good luck bro!