Thanks for your post. It is true that depression can become a pattern that is easier to wallow in then to do something about, but I also believe that some people do need medication to help motivate their 'hope'. Basically, it isn't always possible to find the strength, motivation and clear-mindedness to beat depression alone.
Having said that, one still needs to work at changing their mind-set and attitude towards other people if they are on anti-depressants or mood-stabilizers, and the steps you suggest will be a great help to a lot of people.