<p>OK </p>
<p>Depression is hard to understand for a kid. He sees that his dad is unemployed but unable to look for a job. To a kid, that seems lazy so it is understandable that he inferred that your unemployment is the cause of his lack of college choices. </p>
<p>Now you need to sit down and tell him (and your other kid) what you have told us. Frankly, even if you had been employed this last year I don't think 200K is worth any undergrad education. After all, what are you going to say to your younger kid??? Where is his/her 200K going to come from? Do not sacrifice your retirement for this! It is not necessary! My kids go to a Catholic high school too and there are some kids that can afford to go anywhere they choose --- so what! </p>
<p>Remind yourself and tell your kids that there are VERY FEW careers that require such an expensive undergrad education. Those who graduate from ivies or other similarly expensive schools DO NOT make more money than those who go to other "good state schools". </p>
<p>I hope you have sought medical treatment for your depression and good luck on finding a wonderful new career.</p>