I hear you. Venlafaxine withdrawal wreaks havoc on brain chemistry including the emotions. The emotional responses I've had to others stories though are I think genuine and quite 'rational'. From a profound sense of relief knowing it's not 'just me', to deep empathy for the pain and suffering of others, I've cried many times reading this thread. That someone's little burst of sunshine can illicit pangs of longing makes sense too... it's a very 'raw' state we are in. I hope you're touched by your own sunbeam soon. And please know that it lasted only a moment - but even a 'glimpse' of a brighter future is enough to keep me pushing on on towards a better day... wish you all the best!