Yes, I know what you mean. I've suffered so much from low self esteem because of my problems. Just today I found myself thinking 'why do I have to be like this, why can't I just be normal'.

Where I live we have access to free CBT courses, which have helped a lot. The 'Time to change' campaign which is about opening up about mental health problems and ending stigma has helped me a lot too.

But still I get days where I'm just so f***ing annoyed with myself.

I missed my pills last night, which just goes to show that helpful as the CBT is, I do rely on them to keep me feeling okay.

I also know what you mean about feeling validated. I have had depression and anxiety on and off all my life, but only in the last couple of years got the help that I need. And having somebody say yes there is something wrong with you, yes it's real, and yes here is help for you, makes a massive difference.