I see permanent crutches, or a permanent wheel chair, or a prosthetic limb, as a tool that becomes and extension of ones self. Even an integral part of ones self. You could say the same for eye glasses or contacts which some people have to totally rely on.

Still people have to learn how to use the tool. Use their own will and muscles to use the crutches. Maybe meds if they are working good could be said to be an extension of yourself similar to eye glasses. In my opinion it still takes lots of other tools to deal with life even for the most mentally healthy people. Even more tools for us. My current meds are allowing me to function whereas in a deep depression I wouldn't be able to, but I still have to do the functioning. I think Venus makes a good point that even with the help of meds we should give ourselves credit for doing the footwork it takes to get out of bed and shower and face the day. Some days are easier than others to do that.