More than a "positive change" it is a necessity for me. I started taking Prozac when I was 19 (20+ yrs. ago). I tried a couple times to go off and see how I would do and it never worked -- I always went back into a depression. The only extended period of time I've been off the meds is before & during my 2 pregnancies and while I was breastfeeding. It was rough -- for me and those around me. I have a what would be considered mild to moderate depression. When I am depressed, I feel no motivation to do anything, because I don't get satisfaction out of anything. I also get very emotional and tend to ruminate over things that bother me -- totally unable to let things go or move on. I fall asleep easily (and often), but cannot stay asleep.
I now take Zoloft, which works a little better for me than Prozac. Not sure why. Regarding side effects -- the most noticeable is the lowered libido, but it something I have to live with. (I've heard that Welbutrin doesn't have that side effect.)
If you are hesitant to try meds, I highly recommend this book:
http://www.amazon.com/Depression-Cure-6-Step-Program-with...
For some people, the meds help, but don't alleviate all symptoms of depression, so following the recommendations in the book can be helpful even if you do take meds.
Please don't accept that you have to live with untreated depression. Keep searching until you find what works best for you.
Good luck.