Dear Overthepoint:

First and foremost, congratulations on the incredible progress you’ve made in accepting yourself and overcoming addiction. This is a significant achievement, and you should be proud of yourself.

You shared that you faced significant challenges over the past seven years, including depression, anxiety, and addiction issues. Recently, particularly over the past 35 days, you experienced the following: “an impressive sense of liberation… deep sexual desires… a profound longing to live—fully live… a very intense torrent of energy… tremendous inner joy… a continuous state of mild ecstasy“.

The problem: “this energy is so intense that it demands all my attention, or at least I am unable to redirect it toward other things. Let’s say that it is so strong that, rather than moving me, it somehow paralyzes me“.

Chronic anxiety and depression are often associated with elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Once you experienced positive changes, particularly overcoming addiction and achieving a sense of control over your life, the levels of these stress hormones may have decreased, leading to a sense of liberation and joy.

Also, during prolonged periods of anxiety and depression, the brain’s neurotransmitter levels, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, aka feel-good chemicals, are secreted at low levels. Once you experienced the positive  changes you experienced, including acceptance and reconciliation with your sexuality, maybe your brain has been overcompensating in the last 35 days, secreting an excess of these feel-good chemicals.

I read that it’s not uncommon for the brain to experience periods of overcompensation, especially after prolonged low levels. However, this state is usually temporary as the brain works to re-establish balance. However, if the over-secretion continues for an extended period, it can lead to negative symptoms. It’s important therefore, to work with a healthcare professional or professionals. They can provide guidance on lifestyle changes, therapy, or medication if necessary.

It’s great therefore that you have an appointment with your psychologist coming up. In the meantime, you are welcome to share more about your thoughts, feelings and experiences here, in your thread, as long as it helps. Also, engaging in mindfulness practices or meditation, and in exercise, yoga, and/ or creative pursuits like writing or painting can help you regulate your emotions and redirect the energy in a positive way.

Be kind to yourself during this transition. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Remember that you’re on a path of healing and growth, and it’s important to give yourself grace and patience. You’re not alone in this, and there are many who can relate to your experiences. I remember that when I was very depressed for prolonged periods of time, every once in a wile, my brain.. sort of took a break from the depression and I felt intense joy, a feeling of being fully alive.

anita