[ThePadawan]

You know an interview goes both ways, right?

As the interviewer, if a candidate goes on and on about something irrelevant, note that, interrupt them, and move on.

You're recognizing that these candidates are in a difficult situation, but you're not taking any steps yourself to support them.

[hwatkins]

As an interviewer you are also trying to figure out how the person will fit into the team, there are literally people that you can't get a word in. Learn how to pause and get feedback to see if you are on track.

[ThePadawan]

I know. That's why I recommended that the interviewer notes that fact, but presses on.

If OPs hypothesis is correct that their rambling is a symptom of "just-got-laid-off-panic", then letting the candidate discredit herself due to that temporary condition is unhelpful for everyone.