Anti-depressants are designed to correct a chemical imbalance within the brain. They shouldn't be taken lightly, but neither should they be simply rejected. When the symptoms are indicating depression, they can be a real help.
I have experienced symptoms of depression over the last few years, and refused to recognize that fact. Eventually I tried a anti-depressant at my doctor's recommendation, and I found that it didn't make me feel abnormal at all.
I was afraid of the effects - but I was surprized to find my depressing thought patterns had stopped, and I was less negative in general. I went from desiring to withdraw from church and other activities to being back to the way I used to be a few years ago. I am again actively involved in my church and loving it.
I have friends who have had similar experiences and have had their lives restored by the correct usage of anti-depressants.
I was very hesitant to try that route because my mother abused Prozac in particular, along with other meds. It was a very trying time for my father and I. I was a hard sell, but I'm glad I decided to try.
I did a lot of research before I agreed to take an anti-depressant, and I was aware of my symptoms and the research into causes. I recommend anyone thinking of taking these drugs to do their own research to really understand what's going on in their lives. Any drug is not to be taken lightly, but responsibly.
Please don't ridicule those who benefit from these drugs.