Hopefull,
Insurance paying for psychiatric care is quite normal these days...they're not going to put you on a "list" or anything...
As for drugs, it's really different for everyone--some have side effects, some don't; one drug will work great for one person, not at all for the next. Unfortunately, it's really kind of trial and error. What is for sure, research has shown that drugs plus therapy work better than either by themselves. I tend to agree, try to find a therapist who does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy...This one tends to address the behavior itself, and the thoughts that drive it. It has been shown to be pretty effective in treating depression.
Whatever you do, though, don't go isolating yourself from your friends or loved ones...you will need them more than anything else as you recover.
Hope this helps, and I wish you well. We're all pulling for you!
DJ