If you're able to work in eastern VA near the district, it would be great if you could get involved in a government job, as they can provide good benefits and long-term security. I remember some sites online that listed a lot of classifieds for a wide range of gov't jobs. My parents both work for the government and started out with low paying jobs, but kept moving up to higher positions every few years, you just have to find something and stick with it.
Also there are of course the classifieds in the city paper too, I just recommend looking online because it's faster if you know what you're looking for. There are jobs that don't require experience, and also telecommuting jobs such as editing for example - which require a computer, internet, email, and maybe fax machine, but you can do all the work at home.
Right now, I think it would do some good just to take a break and call up any old friends or relatives, and just get together and spend some time with them. There must be someone who wants to hear from you again. Even if there is no one at all, you still have your intelligence, as you've noted, and that's the most important thing. No matter what you lose, you still have your mind and the ability to use it towards something positive. Deep down, there is something important to you. Think back to what made you truly happy in life, and remember this feeling. You can find this again, if you want it enough. That's what you will need to motivate you.
You've experienced a lot of pain and loss, but you're still here today talking to us. That gives me hope, because you want to feel better again, and all of us here as humans know pain and how hard it can be.. but people like yourself and others here who have refused to give up despite tragedy are heroes to the rest of us for making it this far. There are others in this world who may be counting on you, who knows - you may make someone's life better who wouldn't have had a chance alone. Society needs change, that's what motivates me.. I want to improve society for others, it gives me a purpose. Join us here and help others so that those after you won't have to experience the problems you've encountered.
Share your stories, and your mistakes, and your ideas. All of us can learn from your experiences, and those you help may be able to help you in return. If there is no other reason to stay, do it for the good of humanity, and to help us learn. Tell us about your early life, the good times and the bad, everything. I will listen, and maybe others here will have similar stories to tell as well.