I get less overwhelmed during very stressful times, like right now (the start of the autumn term is always stressful and this year it has been more so than usual.) I have more confidence in my own ability to get through the crazy times, and I can more easily find a kernel of calm within myself. I still lose it completely from time to time and I do feel a lot of stress, but I handle it better and get through it more quickly.

And this was not even the main reason why I went to therapy, and I am seeing a psychodynamic T (I think CBT is perhaps more often associated with stress management, but PDT works for me.)

Thank you for this thread. I think it is a good thing to take stock of the positive change from time to time.