TLDR: While depressed I dated, but after I started antidepressants and depression left I got my special interest back, and now it’s so fulfilling that dating/romance feels meaningless (not in a bad way—I feel very happy now). Is this a common experience? What is this? Is this monotropism?

—— Long Explanation: Over the past years I became deeply depressed and lost my special interest.

A lot of needs that were met by that project (community, support, fulfillment, creative outlet) ended up getting lost, so for the next couple years I dated people to get some of those needs filled.

After starting antidepressants this last month my special interest has returned, and I find myself working 15 hours a day on it, happier then ever.

Before I started antidepressants a month ago, I’d started seeing someone, and it was going well! They’re very nice, pretty, and greatly supportive.

Now that my special interest is back I feel no interest in anyone romantically or sexually. I can’t even find people attractive anymore. Romantic gestures have no mental effect on me, beyond platonic appreciation.

I think down the line I have interest in marrying someone platonically— ideally someone who’s as deeply obsessed with their work as I am, just for a bit of companionship occasionally.

Curious if anyone else experiences this? How has this affected your life?