Hi there, I am not sure what was the discussion between you and your doctor during the initial diagnosis and treatment, but herpes simplex is not a curable virus. Once the initial blisters are gone, the virus hides in your body within the nerves, where they stay until your body s immune system is down, and the blisters come back. The antivirals will only make each episode of blister go away faster, or you can choose to take it long term if you have too many episodes of reactivation, or if you want to be less infective to your partner. The medication doesn t kill all the viruses, which is why your blood test will always be positive. Stress from your depression might make your immune system lower, or sometimes people can get an episode just from being overly tired, or having a mild cold. You can restart the antivirals now, since you seem to be having a reactivation. Another option is to go with just an antiviral cream, which may work as well. Hope this gives you a better understanding of your problem. Let us know if you have further questions. Regards, Dr. Teh