Aloha!

I'm back with another major step forward in the simulation core - and this time, we're diving into two of the most misunderstood drug types in Project Zomboid: antidepressants and beta blockers.

Previously, popping one "happy pill" magically erased all unhappiness. The new antidepressant system reflects how these drugs really work:

 - No immediate effect. Antidepressants now take time and consistent, scheduled use to build up therapeutic levels in the body.

 - Missing doses reduces effectiveness, and inconsistent use can prevent any benefit at all.

 - Overdosing doesn't help - it won't accelerate the effect, but it will raise toxicity.

You'll need to track your doses and timing to get the real mental health benefits, just like in real life. The system tracks therapeutic buildup and resets if you fall off your schedule.

Previously, beta blockers magically erased panic on the spot. In the new system:

 - Panic reduction depends on how strong the beta blocker is.

 - They don't completely remove panic, especially under severe stress - instead, they suppress excessive spikes and help regulate your response.

 - Effectiveness is curved - they're most efficient around their ideal stress range, but less helpful if you're already overwhelmed.

This means you'll want to take them proactively, especially if you know you're about to enter a high-stress situation. Choose your dose wisely - and don't count on them to save you if you're already spiraling.

Together, these changes push Immersive Medicine even closer to its goal:

a deep, survival-based simulation of the human body, where your choices matter and drugs aren't just buff potions - they're tools with risks, timings, and consequences.