This is indeed a wow statement. Not from the field and completely anecdotal. I know 5 people in my family taking Lexapro for anxiety and all with significantly improved results after a month or two of use. I know it's not depression but still.
Seems like an attempt to deflect from much more likely issues.
Usually depression is treated with a mix of drugs—such as SSRIs—and psychotherapy. I think health officials are completely aware of the long term effects, and that is why the treatment is most often multi-faceted.
I feel many people who comment on meds like SSRI never really needed them so much so for them the long term safety is a big issue, but when these pills have a huge positive impact on your life then you are more willing to accept it.