you don't have to take antidepressants because you can change your biochemistry with behavioral/cognitive techniques. it might take longer, and i know it takes a lot of work, but it's worth it. i figure you just have to go off the meds eventually, anyway.
yes, i have been recovered for a number of years. i did not take meds because i was phobic about that. i was just sick and tired of being sick and tired. i wasn't doing anything with my kids, in fact, i wasn't doing anything. i was willing to do anything (almost), and son of a gun, it worked!
concentrate on you, right now. School is a long way off. the most important thing is for you to start feeling better.
do you have any support? where do you live?
mary ann