[NeedHelp104]

Two weeks ago I was prescribed an SSRI to treat my severe anxiety, mainly caused by the demands of school. Needless to say, this stuff works absolutely amazing on me. No recurrent panic attacks, as well as anxious thoughts--can sleep the BEST I've had since I was 14. I am now able to cope better. However, these pills have also made me recognize something else: that I was depressed for many years (I am now 20). I now want to go out and do things. I am now not only going to the gym, but also walking the golf course, playing tennis, as well as picking up a former instrument I used to play. I want to cry with tears of joy. I am finally happy. I always wondered why these past six years I have been nothing but a zombie I always wondered why these past six years it would be insanely difficult for me to find a hobby--or at least find something interesting --- and stick to it. I remember people would ask me: "want to go to the game?" and I just thought absolutely EVERYTHING was boring. I just couldn't feel excited at all. Absolutely NOTHING would excite me. I was irritable too with my parents--at stupid simple things. I am also a lot nicer. I am a lot more helpful to my parents. When people would ask me: "What do you like?" I wouldn't know what to answer. Now I do. Selecting a career was insanely difficult, but I am performing well in University (4.0 GPA) because I always had a fear of failure. I can't believe how great I feel you guys!! What I am asking is: is it possible that one day I can still feel like this without medication?
Thank you for your time. I feel normal---and once in a very long time---myself again. I thought I was one of those people who would never be happy, because I thought that quality was natural or innate to me. Now I know that belief was false.

[Sunflower123]

I'm so happy for you. That's great news!!! Yes, some people do recover from depression and do fine. Many, however, have to continue medication to maintain stability. I'm not so sure about anxiety. That's a good question for your pdoc. Best wishes.

[Unrigged64072835]

Glad that you are doing great.

Depression happens differently per individual. Anxiety too. You may only need a little medication to get over the slump; you may have a relapse and need a new med. Take advantage of what you're feeling now and keep going.