Yes, I do have good days, some really good days, and, also, days that are not so terrific. Never quite sure what to expect from day to day. I have lived with chronic depression since my teens and I am now in my 60's. I have lived with this a very long time. I take Effexor -- have since 2005, and 6 weeks ago, had to double the dose with doctor's cosent. Without it -- well, I can't imagine -- it really did give me back my life. I have also coped with social anxiety and panic attacks. With this med, I no longer have either. As for the depression, it is tolerable, most days, but not all.

Coping skills are learned along the way, as we go through life. This last January, when I was really unhappy -- for me, also -- no real reason to be so -- I have a good life -- I started going to the gym. I even hired a personal trainer to help me set up a program -- that was a bit intimidating -- but I made myself to it -- and overcame the lack of confidence I felt in myself

So, taking that big step with the trainer, walking into a gym where I knew no one and didn't know anything about weight training was a huge and positive step for me. Now, I go to the gym 2 or 3 times a week -- a yearly pass will cost me $30 a month -- well worth my physical and mental health. So adding the exercise to my life is another coping skill. I am always looking for ways to make my daily life as positive for myself as I can. After years of living with daily stress, panic and anxiety, the body grows weary and begs for rest. I went many years without med, and put my body through so much harm. It was when I had been retired for a few years, that I finally realized that I could no longer do this on my own. The anxiety and panic attacks were growing more exhausting and I was so tired. I tried to live without med, and did, for a long time. But, finally, realized I couldn't fight this on my own any longer. I will say again for me, it was the right thing to do.