I have been going to therapy off and on for years and whenever I bring up my desire to date and my difficulties with it I have gotten back to just work on myself and online I have seen “if you aren’t happy alone you won’t be happy in a relationship”. I have major depression and have had it for years. Am I supposed to just hope it goes away? Wait until my entire life has passed?
You don’t have to be “cured” or anything, but it would be in your best interest & the interest of your future partner to learn good coping mechanisms, strategies, and improve your general mental welfare before you get involved with anyone.
Basically, you need to know how to care for yourself and your own mental health, first and foremost. That doesn’t mean hiding it or having it “go away”, but it does mean knowing that you would be able to support your partner in their struggles, as well.
A partner is NOT a replacement for a qualified therapist.