I don't know if i have any answer to the questions of this thread but i think if one can focus to the bright side, see the light at the end of the tunnel (what they say over here) and not waste energy analyzing thngs that are not helpful especially while you are struggling, thats the important key to channel your energy in positive direction, and come out of the pot hole. Also don't think that its gonna be like this for ever about the situation you are in currently. It will be much better as time moves on. Take it from a guy who landed and got stuck  somewhere in midwest blue collar conservative place since last eight years,  who didn't wanted to be there at the first place.