It's my pleasure to offer what I've learned from others, @parus. I am a firm believer in meds to help with depression (but not to be forced on anyone who has adverse side effects). I have learned that when you live through stressful circumstances in life your brain chemistry does change and often antidepressant meds helps to replace the brain chemistry that is depleted (similar to an epileptic taking anti-seizure meds or a diabetic taking insulin).

I certainly appreciate your thinking out loud in your posts and trying to come to an understanding. I think this is the great thing about Connect. It allows us to educate ourselves and learn from others.