The brainiacs are saying the recession is over, citing a rise in corporate confidence and a spike in orders being placed. But it's not yet the real healing that individuals and families so desperately need on the job front.

For the foreseeable future, the job market will continue to be tough. That leaves many people in unexpected positions. Clark recently talked with a woman who was unemployed for some time. After a few minutes, it emerged that she had not applied for unemployment compensation because she was too proud.

Unemployment compensation should not be a dirty word in your vocabulary; insurers pay this insurance during good times so people can survive during lean times. So know that it is legitimate for you to seek assistance in this economy.