The condensed version:
I was working for a major aerospace corp developing a new generation of radar transponder applicable for both military and commercial use. This unit transmits a digital signature for use by air traffic control to identify each aircraft. One day 19 guys hijacked some airliners, shutdown the transponders and used those planes as bombs. Three days later my boss told me that, due to major rethinking in design, the end of the month would be my last day.

I didn't work for 18 months. There was no extended unemployment. I spent about $70k (all) of my savings, lost my house and went to live with friends. I lived in Philly. It's not as pricey as NYC or LA but not cheap either. I did phone work, handyman stuff, basically whatever I could find. We were on welfare for almost 4 months of the 18 months.

The next job that I could find in my field was in Illinois. It wasn't ideal but it worked for a bit. I've been very steadily employed since.

To put it simply, fear and panic are extremely motivating.

On the other hand being away from the day to day minutia does restore some overall focus. I felt more balanced after getting back.

I knew it could be worse at least I was mobile, major back surgery about 1 year before, and the company had a great termination package. Out of work for three months and did some volunteer work.