I had a depressive few years between school and my first job. I didn't notice it until very late because of my extreme introvert lifestyle. But then it got a lot worse. I basically lost all motivation to do anything had episodes where I was just sad for no reason. It didn't help watching all those drama animes.
One day I confided in my mom and after a visit to my doctor she sent me to a psychologist. I had one session there and it felt great. I said I would definitely return but I never did. It got gradually better after I got my job and had to go out more. My job gave me a lot of confidence and a fixed outlook on my life and my future.
I still live very much holed up and avoid social activities as much as possible but I do it with purpose and confidence now. I do consider myself happy right now.
If you demand respect or gratitude for your volunteer work, you're doing volunteering wrong.
