Hello, NeverBeenSane!
I think the official line goes something like this: "Depression is treatable, and many of those treated for depression recover."

I am suspicious of the official line, especially since I'm chronically depressed. Nevertheless, the statistics do seem to be on your side, particularly as you are in treatment. That is, chances are you will get better or even recover in time.

You've been around PsychCentral before, and a fair number of posters have suffered from depression and/or other mental illnesses for years. We may not be representative of the larger community of sufferers.

As for self-esteem, I personally view it as a fruit. You don't increase the size of the fruit by physically trying to stretch it; you grow it by fertilizing and watering its bearer. (There's a Self-Esteem Forum around here somewhere.)

All the best to you, NeverBeenSane! Please keep posting -- looking forward to your longer post in preparation.