I have battled depression from early years of life until I was a senior. Finally got down to a 10 mg dose and I feel fine. I outlived two psychiatrists (both died of (different) cancers). My mother had it also (plus agoraphobia, anxiety disorders- you name it), my older sister had depression and still takes some form of anti-depressant. Her grand daughter attempted suicide, and is in a treatment program.
I have a 35 year old son (from an outcross breeding - ha !!) and thank G-d he is okay and so is his fee-on-say (can't spell it).
Used to breed & show Cockers, hybridized streptocarpus plants (not a disease) coming up with variegated leaves and also scented.. Got settled in with BYC when a lady I met on the "senior bus," told me she had house chickens and lots of questions. I discovered BYC which helped her (when she wasn't too stubborn to take advice) and met a world of very, very nice people here. I love this place . It keeps me sane (though some may differ on that).
BYC also has/had ??? a thread for depression - what a surprise to find others with it who are doing just fine with their lives. It helps so much to share experiences.