Keep the job-search blues at bay

The number of "discouraged workers" -- those who have not actively looked for work in the past four weeks, primarily because they believe no jobs are available for them -- shot up 70% between the first quarter of 2008 and 2009, writes Fortune's Anne Fisher in her June 4 Ask Annie column.

Have you or a loved one endured a long, discouraging job hunt? What have you found to keep your spirits up and help you stay motivated? If you've gotten hired after a long search, what do you think was most helpful in landing your new job?