I was laid off 2.5 months ago from a leadership position at a company where I envisioned building my career. Since then, I've been tirelessly searching for new opportunities, applying to around 200 positions with customized resumes, cover letters, and portfolios. I've dedicated countless hours to networking and developing relationships, hoping for referrals with every outreach. So far, I've gone through nearly 100 interviews, repeating the same questions, and some companies have put me through over a dozen interviews before ultimately rejecting me. Currently, I'm in the 'final stage' with a couple of companies that I've been engaging with throughout this entire process. However, I feel completely exhausted. My anxiety has escalated to a point where I can't even take a deep breath. My heart races, my palms are sweaty, and my hands tremble constantly. This anxiety isn't just tied to interviews or applications; it's a persistent state I find myself in every day. I feel somewhat ridiculous for how my body is reacting, especially since I'm doing well in terms of interviews and opportunities. Yet, this job search is wreaking havoc on my nervous system, and I'm worried that if I don't secure a position soon, my ability to present myself effectively will start to decline. I've never faced a situation like this before. It feels like the ground has been pulled out from under me, and the reality of my circumstances is beginning to sink in.