I had it really bad at one point, I still have it now but less frequent and I can recognise when its affecting me. I went for CBT through the NHS (if you're in UK). Really does help.
How easy was it to get the NHS to diagnose you? I've been mulling this over, but from what I've heard unless it's life-destroyingly serious (or a bad case of depression) they aren't that interested.
I also heard this before I went to see the doctor, I just said that it was affecting my day to day activities and that some days I struggles to force myself out of the house. I said My friends and family are also noticing and then the doctors seemed to listen and referred me. The list was about 5 months before I got seen and I heard that this was quick.
The first and Major step is recognising it and now you have. You'll be fine. Will take some time but you will get through. Good Luck :)