It certainly is rough trying to get through to them, especially when you're worried about your application. 
Try calling early in the morning (right when they open, 8am I think), and if it doesn't put you through, try hanging up and calling right back. I've done that a few times and eventually got through. 
I've called CIC many times and I've never had to wait longer than until the next day to get through to someone - it just takes persistence! Once it's possible, press options 2-1-1-0. That should get you through. Knowing the options also speeds things up since you don't have to to listen to much. 
Obviously I 100% agree that it shouldn't be this hard, but unfortunately we have to play by their rules. This should help though!