Is medication really the only answer to long term depression?

I'm sorry to hear you feel like this Kandinsky it's a horrible illness. That is exactly what depression is, an illness like any other don't be afraid to try medication as you would for a physical problem. Usually a mixture of treatments helps, medication, therapy, counselling etc. Talk to your Dr/ mental health team and try the medication they advise. Good luck.

Citalopram has helped me greatly in the past.
In particular, helping me to keep things in perspective. It’s also helped with my anxiety.
However, currently my mental health is all over the shop, and I think it’s too much for even the citalopram to deal with!
It certainly never made me feel numb, in fact it made me feel more ‘awake’ and gave me clarity if anything.
Please speak to your GP.
I hope that you get some relief soon Kandinsky

My dh has been on a low level dose for some years and it has made a lot of difference. I can’t see him stopping as the issues could return.
I am sure it will help. Certainly worth a try because feeling as you do is miserable. Speak to your doctor and then decide.

My husband is on sertraline which works for him . He has also had counselling which he found very beneficial. Some sessions were from the NHS service and he now has a telephone counsellor we found on line who is excellent. Just hope you find your way to get the help you need.

That's horrible for you, kandinsky. Try them and see if they help is all I could say to you. I have never had them but one of my daughters has, on and off. Better that than feel down all the time, its only a pill and if it does a good job, go for it. Presumably you have tried other things like talking to someone, natural remedies etc ( if they even work)?

I was on several different antidepressants until I was finally prescribed fluorextine. This regulates serotonin. It is a chemical imbalance not just a bad feeling.
So I suggest you go for talking therapy first, if you can get a GP to let you. That should let you see what the real problem is

Kandinsky
I’m very sorry to hear that your suffering like this. There is a lot
Of information on exercising lifting your serotonin levels.
Here’s just one article.

www.healthline.com/health/depression/exercise

For 3 members of my family , medication is the only thing that has worked. 2 close members were suicidal and are now feeling so much better and able to function normally.
My Mum went on medication when I was 18 and wished that she hadn’t suffered for years without, I wish she had gone to the Dr. sooner, I suspect my life would have been so much better.
Try it and see.