"i have suffered from depression for a long time, but never believed it. i always said &quot;it&#039;s a rough patch, i&#039;ll come out of it soon&quot; ..8 years on, i was down and out and suicidal. my dr. recommended zoloft. i was skeptical and afraid of playing with my emotions. i thought depressed was just &quot;me&quot;. but i gave it a go, after 3.5 weeks, the most wonderful thing has happened. i feel normal. i can cope with my day, i am hopeful about the future. there were side effects for the first week, i took my pill at night which helped and kept up the exercise, they passed. if i can give any advice it&#039;s don&#039;t be afraid to take control of your body and don&#039;t feel guilty if you decide to try medicines, listen to your dr. you deserve to be happy."