Hi Mark,
Welcome, and thanks for your introduction.
Depression is one of those things where once we've got it we become a little more prone to it's side effects in the long run. It is treatable but I like to see treatment as something long term, the quick fixes don't tend to have much impact. It's kind of like dieting, you can choose to go on a diet for 6 weeks, struggle from withdrawals of all the foods you used to enjoy, and then give up only to regain the lost weight. Or you can change your lifestyle so that long term you eat healthy, exercise regularly, sleep well, and take time for yourself, therefore slowly losing the weight but keeping it off for good.
The medications often have impactful side effects but I've found these subside after a couple of months. They can also take some time to start having an affect, and doses may need to be reviewed at intervals. In addition to medication are you also seeing a therapist? In my experience looking after yourself when you're experiencing depression is better done with a combination of treatments. Individual therapy, group supports or group therapy, and a healthy lifestyle approach.
You may have read them already, but if not, Beyondblue have a range of resources available to download online that have a lot of information on depression.
Working can be a challenge at times, especially due to poor concentration, and poor brain function. It's important to keep the brain healthy. Mindfulness is a good technique to practice, you can google this and there are plenty of apps and cds available. I like that you're taking the view of reinventing yourself. What sort of career do you think you would be interested in? I'm in this process at the moment. Late last year I left my job as a Senior Training Manager for a Cosmetic company. I have been quite daunted by the thought of returning to work ever since. Having said that having a mental illness has really helped me to find my true self and recognise my values. I've started writing a novel, I'm currently designing my own website, and I'm thinking about studying Social Work or counselling.
Anyway, it was lovely to read that despite your troubles you are still wanting to contribute to the forums. I have no doubt you'll be great at this:) Look forward to reading more of your posts.
AGrace