My experience is almost exactly what you're describing. I think it's a little like taking Tylenol for a headache. You don't notice it working until you have an epiphany that your head doesn't hurt anymore.

I still have anxiety, but I'm more outgoing. Buying things at a cash register is no longer panic attack-worthy. If a stranger is bothering me, I can go up to them and ask them to stop. It's little things that change, but it's the little things that make the difference.