• Transition gradually to the workforce.  If your intention is to go back to work in 6 months, don't wait until the last minute to read-up on the latest news in your industry or profession.  Allocate few hours a day to update or refresh your knowledge base.
• Whatever you may be able to read online or in newspapers won't beat hearing it directly from people in the know.  Start networking: connect with old colleagues, call your acquaintances, attend events, be proactive.
• Refresh your resume and prepare a sample cover letter that you can tailor to each position you apply to.
• Sharpen your interview skills.  Be ready to justify your employment gap in a few sentences, but most importantly, be ready to pitch what you have to offer.  Address the past, but focus on the future.
• Get back to the gym and update your wardrobe if need be.  You want to feel and look healthy.
• Change your mindset.  Everyday people like you that were off the workforce reintegrate the workforce.  It can be done.  You just need to believe in yourself and work hard towards your goal.

As you prepare yourself to re-enter the workforce, keep in mind that your biggest obstacle is yourself.  You will face obstacles, but it's up to you whether you will let those obstacles stop you or whether you will overcome those obstacles and build a new future for yourself.  Don't dwell on the past and don't assume that people will look down at you or inevitably question your long absence from the workforce.  The more you think about it or try to justify yourself, the more you will draw attention to it and it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Stick to the basics of job search: always project confidence and a positive image.