Two problems exist in this debate. The first is the confusion of depression and substance abuse. It is cetainly true that many people who are depressed are also alcoholics and drug users, but not all are. Treatment lumps the two together and those who are seriously depressed have entirely different needs. Then there is the assumption that help will be sought. Most people who are depressed or anxious never seek help They are ashamed and guilt ridden. The medication also is far from perfect and may even not work at all. We pay for a private psychiatrist for now for our 30 year old son, because he cannot afford it. We put a roof over his head and meet his bills so he is not forced to live under a bridge. Life must be hell for those who have no-one to care.