For me, antidepressants have helped "rebalance" my mood, so to speak. I knew I needed help after months of having extreme sadness and moodiness that coincided with other symptoms that were atypical for me (sleeping too much, lack of appetite, and essentially withdrawing from my life). I got evaluated by a Psychiatrist that was in my HMO. She then recommended a good therapist, who through a Cognitive Behavioral approach, worked with me to address my personal issues.
Antidepressants are often used to get someone feeling well again (like any medication) and after a period of time many people are able to stop taking them. I have stopped the antidepressants and have never had a problem. If you have a good Psychiatrist or Doctor, they will guide you in how to do this to avoid having issues. While on antidepressants I have never felt "drugged" or not like "myself" on them. Rather I feel "back to normal," but it could be different for every individual or dependent on the drug you take.
Hope this helps and that you feel better soon. Hang in there!