SplitImage I'm so happy you're still here. Read your post. We have/had very similar challenges. Mine are resolved just for today. I take an antidepressant that works and have been sober using AA for almost 30 years now. Here briefly is the formula I used that gained me success. I first got my depression under control, inpatient in my case. (63 days). I knew if I didn't tackle that first my efforts to stay sober would be nil. Then I joined an intense outpatient addiction 12 step program 6 hrs/day 5 days a week for 6 months. I saw my post doc regularly and was in therapy. I attended meetings 6 days a week. I used U.S. welfare to have medical insurance while in outpatient. Then SSI when I completed my outpatient so I could work 20 hrs a week and still have medical coverage. The rest of the time was for meetings. I worked for about 4-5 months then applied for a career job. I knew I needed to take these steps gradually because depression or drinking or both would destroy my efforts. You and I have a double edged sword. If we don't in unison resolve our challenges IMHO we will fail.
I know in Canada not everything's the same as in the states but I do feel getting your depression under control and working a recovery program will yield you the success I've had. It's a tenuous balance at first but it can work. If your depression returns go to your post doc for tweaking of meds. If you feel like drinking double up on meetings and talk about it there. The group can be an excellent support tool.
Others may disagree with my approach but I feel there's no race to the finish line. Each step is vital. There are a few attitudes that will assist...a desire to be sober, fixing the depression and a willingness to do both at all times. Simplify and then add things to your life slowly. I'm so glad you have a loving brother to help you financially.
Of course my reply is only a suggestion. I wish you well. I'd love to see you as I feel now...happy, joyous and free.