[Nrsolis]

Here is the thing: the drugs are like a cast or a crutch. They help you heal.

The talk therapy is like learning how to get strong so you don't break bones or lose balance and fall.

They go together. You can do talk therapy without the drugs but that didn't work for me. The drugs got me into the right frame of mind to understand and process emotions. I could be mindful and see when I was irritated because depression was creeping back in.

I don't think depression is something you completely cure. I think it's something you manage your way out of and keep at bay with constant effort. Mental hygiene practiced with a professional goes a long way towards making that happen.

Look, I discussed some really gut-wrenching things with my therapist. I dug deep. I did the hard work. It wasn't fun.

But today I'm able to live without drugs or weekly visits to a therapist. I'm effectively in remission. And let me tell you man: I'm HAPPY.