Hard to say @Birdofparadise8 because everyone is so different. I will say that peaks and troughs, ups and downs - very normal, if very frustrating at times. For me personally, I started having thoughts of suicide at around 14 years old, and took me about 10 years to start improving, and another three to really notice a big difference in my outlook, sense of self, etc.
But that being said, I didn't actually start seeking help until I was about 22. I didn't think I deserved it. Boy was I wrong.
I am also still working on myself. I don't think my recovery journey has an end, except my own end. But to my mind now, that is an amazing thing, because it means I am always striving for growth and change. Now when I look back, it's hard to believe how far I've come. And funnily enough, studying counselling actually did wonders for my mental health as well. You can do similar without having to go to uni if you want, through all the incredible resources the internet has to offer. Ted talks, journal articles, psychology websites - even reddit can have some gems. Also maybe check out some of my fav authors/counselling resources: Irvin Yalom's works, Brene Brown, and the book 'The Body Keeps the Score' are some good places to start. Oh and a lil book called 'The Four Agreements' did wonders for my worldview.
You are doing great things for yourself by seeking therapeutic support, and community support through the forums. Melbourne itself was a game changer for me - I found my chosen family here. It's a truly awesome city as well. Maybe it will hold the same for you - here's hoping. 🤞
