I first was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at age 14. I tried a series of SSRIs and other medications but did not stay on any longer than a month or two. I self medicated with recreational drugs relatively successfully since age 13. The most significant event occurred right after my 15th birthday when I took an excessive amount of exctasy for a week straight, refraining from eating, sleeping, and drinking water. The comedown was unlike anything ive ever experienced. Afterwards, I experienced prolonged effects such as impulse control issues and I believe this even permenantly altered my personality and brain function. Despite this, i managed to live a relatively normal live, achieve many goals, work and go to school. It wasn’t until age 24 when I started using meth and heroin and was no longer to be self sufficient or function. Im currently receiving psychiatric treatment.
