First, I want to thank you for your military service. As a vet myself (Viet Nam) I know to rise in the ranks from E-1 to E-5 in 27 months is a feat few accomplish. I imagine you were a good soldier, thank you again. Secondly, the VA is as good resource for treatment as exists. A good psychiatrist / psychologist will admit it is all a guessing game with outcome variables unpredictable. It can take decades to find the cocktail of meds and/or psychotherapy techniques that work for an individual. It is critical you not give up or become overwhelmed by the circumstances you experience. Don't give up. You were a soldier once, and young. You can do this. Continue to work with the VA and seek their 'mindfulness' training and exercise as that also is a BIG help. I have suffered MDD and PTSD for over 45 years, been through the meds and techniques, and still find "hopelessness" an old standby. It is one day at the time, each day brings challenge and rewards, and you can do this.