I'm learning to appreciate smaller returns to 'normal', rather than wondering if and when I will feel like myself again. I like how cyberius said that our idea of 'normal' changes with growth. Last time I had any real time off H, once I was a month or so in, I felt like a completely different person. Awkward in social situations, high anxiety, racing thoughts, restless... and although it was uncomfortable, overall I felt so much better. This was the beginning of the new 'normal' for me, I guess.
Still in the early stages now, but instead of sitting in the chair all day hiding under a blanket feeling sorry for myself, I've been seeing family, and just being able to laugh with my sister last night was one of the first signs to me that I'm getting better. Just experiencing some positive emotion....how about that? Didn't realize how long it has been.
I'm hoping someone else who's still in the early stages can look forward to feeling some of those feelings and remind themselves how much better it really is once they get through the worst of it.
Although it probably feels like it, you are never alone in this fight.