dsf - It's true, I have read the research, but I'm sure you still understand where I'm coming from since you're in the do-i-dont-i phase yourself. It's just hard, ya know? Thanks for the response.

Sky - I don't 'snap out' persay, but it does seem like I ween out of it within a few days. I only say it cycles because it continues to come back...that's why I was asking about the 'as-needed' things because I'm not always depressed. Infact when I'm happy, I do very very well in life and school and relationships and things like that. It's a significant difference, even if it does make the depression worse (when you know what you're missing out on).

Danialla - Long term would be better, I suppose. Thing is I haven't even taken them to begin with! I hope things turn out well for you.

Thanks for everyones responses. Sorry if I offended anyone by making AD's sound like 'happy pills' but in reality - that's what they are. That's what they do. If they don't 'make you happy' they make your brain produce the chemicals that do...so, by proxy, they make you happy. Or able to function, or whatever. I don't have anything personally against them because like I said I have many friends/family that do take them, but I just don't feel like they are for me.

Good luck to everyone...