[mb7733]

100% positive. Even though outwardly I was a popular, social, active, easy-going kid/teen I suffered from constant anxiety and sometimes depression throughout my childhood and adolescence. (I wasn't aware of it at the time -- thought it was normal to feel that way.) I also would also often feel inexplicable dread about doing things I usually enjoyed, like music or sports. I would often make excuses to skip these things and stay home in bed... even though they were my hobbies and nobody was forcing me to do them.

Finally things came to a head around age 19-20 when I dropped out of university two years in a row due to depression/anxiety. I had no real problem with school -- but I would just get a month or so in and it would feel unbearable to even think about going to class or opening a book. And I liked school!

After the second time a doctor suggested I start on a small dose of escitalopram. Within a week I was more or less rid of the anxiety, and I think for me an overload of anxiety was what would put me into a depressive state. The biggest thing for me was gaining the ability to have some control over my thoughts. Prior to starting medication my internal monologue was basically just an uncontrollable, irrational, negative stream of consciousness. Since starting, by default I feel... "OK". Which is perfect -- they are not happy pills for me. I still feel negative emotions and I still have bad days but I am able to live my life!

I am still taking 5/10mg alternating daily 10 years later.