Dear Jessica,

I am very glad you feel so much better. I am also glad that you tried to dispel some of the myths about depression (the “of course you’re depressed” is one of the most common).

I practiced psychopharmacology for almost 30 years as a psychiatrist in a blue color city. Many had the same story as you. What I wantto emphasize is that zoloft did not complete you. You were already complete. Antidepressants do not give you anything; they only take away depression and the many effects it has on your mind and life.

If you like who you are it’s because who you are is consistent with your values. Many people get better from depression and still have work to do before liking themselves or feeling joy. For you it was covered up by the glut of depression.

Let’s hope many people get your message.

Sincerely,

Mark Rego, MD