Dont know what i can add to make you feel better.. I also got HPPD after only one exposure to Mushrooms which was my drug debut.. I guess seeking some help, like someone to talk to would be advisable..
As for your future.. I asked Dr.Abraham when i met him, (the leading specialist on HPPD) about the future, and studying and working.. He told that once one adjust to the condition and have other more positive things in life to distract you,
the visuals and other symptoms will become less bothersome and relevant to your life.. He also said that some off his HPPD patients include, Doctors, lawyers and even investment bankers.. who all have HPPD.
I also asked arturo lerner (another HPPD specialist) about whether HPPD is braindamge, the answer i got was no.. Since the changes in the brain are functional.. And i think that research have concluded that apart from the visual and psychological symptoms
HPPD doesnt have a lot of effect on memory and concentration.. Although im not sure about this one.. But i think i read it once on the former forum, please correct me if im wrong..
I can say i feel better after having this condition for 3 years i guess.. Takes a while, but sooner or later, it wont make sense blaming yourself, or thinking catastrophic thoughts.. It just becomes better, and less relevant i guess..