Skippy, I am the parent of a recently qualified fATPL from a leading FTO. He had to take out "The Loan" and we had to cash in our insurance policies - it was a family decision - we are NOT RICH. When he applied, we were in end 2006/early 2007 - and the talk here was all "do it NOW!" The downturn is no fault of the pilots - it's a global recession. I am confident it will come back in time. Son is going to do an FI course, and live at home unitl he gets that elusive first job. It will not be easy, but I do agree with some of the posts - if you leave the aviation loop, I suspect it will be very difficult to rejoin. Employers look for commitment and determination to succeed. If you can't afford a FI course, then do something else, but keep flying, even if only on the weekend, or do some gliding..The very best of luck to you and all the other young (and not so young) folk in a similar position...
