I empathize. The tech market is rough, one of the worst I've seen. No one knows what's going to happen so no one wants to invest, plan, hire, etc.

There's work available if you were determined enough but it may not be in your field or it may be contract work temporarily. The struggle is real and if you're in a position where you're sinking then take anything to keep you afloat.

Indeed. For now my work is a mix of 2 part time jobs, one freelancing, and one not in my field. That should sustain me for 2025, but I am keeping my eye out for ideas while I revamp my portfolio. The disappointment is normalized at this point.