How do I overcome depression without using medication?

Has anyone personally witness recovery from depression from using medication?

• Hi, I'm just wondering if anyone has personally seen recovery from severe depression or any other mental illness by using medication? In my experience, every single person I know, suffering from mental illness, has not recovered by using medication. In fact, their illness because much worse and more unstable. My grandmother, ex boyfriend, and many friends have commit suicide. They all had psychotherapy. They were all on numerous anti-depressants, mood stabilizers, etc. All spent time in psychiatric hospitals (who had released them because they were "recovered") Also, they had all tried electric shock therapy. They were all supported emotionally thorough their mental illness too. I suffer severe depression and took Citalopram at a somewhat high dose for a few months and found myself less sad on a daily basis, but began to self harm and become more suicidal. I got off of this medication and now I am not suicidal - just unable to function because of my debilitating depression. It's a tough situation - all doctors suggest I go on to some sort of medication...but everything I've seen has not helped people...only made it worse....Has anyone experienced the same? Thanks.

• Answer:

  I've had many friends (your age) that were severely depressed. From experience they've noticed that staying on the medicine for long periods of time helps. You have to stay consistent. Even if you are feeling better one day, stay on the meds. Also, have you been tested for bipolarism (is that a real word, not sure) or adhd? Either way, stay positive. I know it sucks now but it does get better! I'm talking from experience here.