The bankroll size is important in figuring out the implications of its loss. For example, if I join a new
poker site, not make a deposit but play freerolls until I win a dollar, take that dollar to the micro stakes table and get felted, technically it means I lost my entire bankroll. Very different case scenario than joining the same site, making a $200 deposit, and losing it at the same micro stakes tables. The first case scenario does not give me any hints about my play, the second does. Being a losing player is not a tragedy, it is the norm and not the exception in poker, but it needs to be looked at objectively and analyzed in detail, as it a serious problem. A key of dealing with prolonged losses is understanding one's true skill level. Too many players consider themselves "good", or "solid" despite being losing players. While variance does not forget anybody and even the very top players encounter losing streaks, the number one reason by far for being a losing player is inadequate experience and skill. Understanding and admitting to yourself (not an easy thing to do) that you are facing overall superior opponents is important, because your goal should shift now from maximizing gains to minimizing losses. You should play freerolls and the smallest micro stakes cash tables available, be patient and observant, accumulate experience and improve your skills cheaply. If you had a decent size bankroll and lost it twice, don't make the same mistake again blaming the notorious variance. I openly admit my recreational attitude towards poker and my limited experience and skill both to myself and others, and the sky is not falling down on me, some fellows might not take me seriously but that's nothing in comparison to the financial and psychological benefits of correct self assessment.