How do anti depressants help you?

[StepDoor]

I was wondering how anti depressants help and what kind of a change I should expect to see if I go on them?

Recently I've been feeling quite lonely and sad. I'm a SAHM with no family around and a demanding toddler, and things are a bit tough. DP works very long hours and isn't really there emotionally for me. I don't want to feel sad; I want to be a happy person but don't really know how to be happy

Any advice?

My symptoms get worse at first, but stick with it. I am so much better. I don't want to kill myself anymore. I am able to leave the house and talk to people. I have energy, and am more patient. I sleep all night. Have time for others. Can show and feel love for others. I don't feel as numb inside. Although when my depression was bad I felt dead inside. I am able to make simple decisions.
Really stick with them, we are so lucky they have been invented.

For me, they didn't. I don't think I should have been prescribed them, actually. I think sometimes when you're in a bad situation it can overwhelm you, but that does not necessarily mean you are depressed. Or, it's more a case of "situational depression."
I made a massive life change and immediately my outlook changed. Obviously this can't always be done. Is there a small change or two you could make to improve your situation?

I think it's situational depression as you call it.

When I'm around people I feel happy. When alone I start feeling down.

I just kind of think, OP, that if you recognise what;s getting you down, and can work to change that, that's got to be better than going on ADs? I realise that's not right for everyone, but it might be for you x

It sounds like you've kind of lost touch with YOU - what time do you get to do your own things?