Respect AJoe... The dragon? I see it as an individual circumstance and behavior(s) created by the sufferer. Some will be like dragons of legend, breathing fire, destructive, aggressive and always hunting, and some are a kin to Pete's Dragon, placid much of the time but don't piss it off That said, the dragon's fate is always up to the individual.
And no, while I've had my share of stressors in my life, I never reached the level of irrationality or crippling anxiety and depression I see on the boards. Despite the challenges, my mind never went to the depths of despair I see here. The depression I dealt with, while daunting, never totally stopped me from living and I recognized it for what it was and sought help. That's where the meds really helped. Its interesting though. I didn't really feel much different but people around me noticed a difference. They said I seemed happier and more upbeat. When it was pointed out is when I realized the meds were having a positive effect and I was fortunate in that the only side effect was a dodgy stomach and bowels. Something as simple as not mentally debating whether I should go for a hike or go fishing was a positive step as before I would argue with myself end up not doing anything and attribute it to just being lazy. I wasn't lazy, I was depressed.
AJoe, you possess an inner fortitude that most don't. To overcome what you have on your own is something rarely seen here. Hopefully, it inspires others to take personal responsibility and action. Meds or no meds, again, it comes down to the individual. Words on a screen are just that unless acted upon.
Positive thoughts