Wow!! I felt just like you, and also reluctant to see a therapist, maybe I thought I could beat my own negative feelings, but the things you mention that you do not want can help a great deal, believe me, I've been there.
Sometimes, talk therapy is enough and then sometimes therapy and meds, really help, getting back to the normalcy you mention.
If possible do not waste time like I did balking about seeing a mental health professional, I had regretted wasting my time, being too proud.
I came a long way and can proudly say, the "T"'s, pdoc and treatment helped save me from myself, sure I still have daily stress at times, we all do in some form, I deal with it as a fact of life. Ridding yourself of the extra baggage (by seeing a mental health professional) will be more beneficial in time, and you'll come away with knowledge and better ways of dealing with stuff.
There is no shame of seeking help, and it does not mean you are a weak person, like some ignorant people think, you know the type of people that belittle others for getting help, and stigmatize.
I feel confident that if you try professional help, you'll learn ways of staving off depression and any other negatives.
I sincerely wish you lots of luck with this. Meanwhile, please take care, and drop by and talk to us

Sincerely,
DE


BTW
Oops! Sorry, I forgot to say, "Welcome to our forums," you'll meet many warm and supportive people here.