This is such a great thread. I've battled depression and anxiety for most of my life. People who find out are always surprised b/c I am a very outgoing, bubbly type person who truly loves life. It's a beast- enough on the topic that I don't have much to add but I thank everyone who posted. Panic attacks have taken years from me. So many things help- medications, therapy, exercise, avoiding negative people etc etc etc that's the good news :D
I have to say I know myself a lot better than I ever would have if I didn't have these things and while it can be awful I still love my life.
Oh yeah- it does run in families too- lots of people in mine and one of my boys too :(