Long time depression and PTSD sufferer here. Drugs help but are not the only answer which seems to be how they are seen in New Zealand. Talking about my problems (not just with professionals but also other sufferers) and my history helps more than the medication. I am on Sertraline (Zoloft) and some other meds and it certainly does help me however it is more of a "it makes things not so difficult" than "it makes me better". For example it makes me not get so upset/angry about things that I would do before. I used to go from 0 to 10 in a second, now it is very, very difficult to get me above an 8 in the anger scales. I am much calmer and that makes me happier.

Obviously these medications are still hugely unknown though and everyone does react differently. My personal advice for those suffering with depression (and any other mental health issue) is to get some talking therapy where you can. As I said it doesn't have to be a professional, often just somebody who kind-of-understands is a huge help!