Hi,
In my opinion, it can get better but it does not go away. The reality is that life will continue to happen and deal us whatever it wants. I guess what changes is our personal attitudes, beliefs and coping skills with all this crap. Of course, it is not an easy task to change these things. I found that the length of my "down" time has decreased. I used to be in the black hole for a month or two...then slowly crawl out. Now, the black hole time lasts no longer than a couple of weeks and the intensity has lessened. The rest of the time I have to fight hard to bombard myself with positive thinking and unguaranteed hope!
I don't know if there really is a true answer to your question. I believe it is different for everyone experiencing depression. Hang in there and keep posting. I have found the people here to be very supportive.
HUGS!
Yellowrose