It really depends on the reason for the two-year gap. If you were proven to be reliable before the gap, then I don't see much cause for concern. Every employer is different. Some hiring managers may not care whereas others won't even call you in for an interview once they see that large of a gap.

Just say you went on a personal sabbatical. And, if asked be prepared to discuss how the "experience" makes you suitable for whatever it is you're applying for. I don't believe it will hurt your re-employment chances at all. I've seen people do this and jump back into work with no issues.

Some potential employers may not ask about the gap but some might. I'd find a way to summarize what changed as a result of it...after all, you are realizing you need/want to work. The idea of a personal sabbatical isn't terrible but I would think it through in case someone wants you to enlarge on it. There's a sweet spot between an outright lie and the unvarnished truth. Up to you to find it.

Assuming you don't know anybody and are unable to get back into the old job, then more than likely will you have to take a "job" just to close the gap. So data entry, call center, retail, fast food, sales. I.e.. jobs that generally don't require a specialized degree, years of experience and tend to not care to much about unemployment gaps.

I had a nearly five year gap. I filled that with volunteer work and applying as much as I could. It's definitely possible to gain a career despite the gaps. It takes perseverance and not giving up.

Good companies don't care about gaps. Again, good companies. People lose a job, take off time to try something else, and then decide to take a day job again. I don't know why people think being interviewed is a place to give a confessional. When I interview candidates I don't care about the gaps, and don't look for them, because they are meaningless. We do drug testings and background checks, so if there is anything possible to be concerned about, it would show up in a background check. I think the worst thing I've seen people do, is get all concerned and defensive about the gap and start running at the mouth about it when I never even asked about it. Seriously, any company that is concerned about gaps isn't a good place to work. Now if you must answer those questions because your options for employment are limited, tell them whatever they wish to hear, because this is privacy and it is none of their business. In some states, they can't force you to reveal salary history including what you are making now. But gaps doesn't seem to be protected yet. I can't think of a profession that if you didn't do it for 2 years, it would be a problem to pick it up again.

Large employment gaps are the Kiss of Death. But all is not lost, you can get hired. In my experience, don't bother with some lengthy explanation when it comes up (and it WILL come up). Just keep it short and sweet. For example, "family issues which have since been resolved." I have been where you are (actually, I had a longer gap). It was incredibly frustrating getting my foot back in the door. I did initially have to accept lower pay than the last job I had prior to my gap.

I have worked in both public and private sectors and I can only remember one or two times where gaps did NOT come up in an interview. Expect that they will.