Depression is a form of addiction. You use it to deal with life stress. Like any addiction the longer you use it the more you need to use it. In other words, you will get more depressed the longer you use this tool to cope with life. Just like any addiction you can’t just stop using it. You need to replace it.
Addictions get in your way. Depression is like a drug in the sense that it is used to avoid the pain of the world. It is a habit. When it stops meeting the need, you will be ready to quit.
BUT would you be better off to change the habit now before you hit bottom? The sooner you break the habit the sooner you will be able to meet your goals.