Hang in there uniquesoul!
And I agree, you should ask about meds, not just for the depression, but for the pain! No Dr should let you suffer when there are so many good and safe pain-relieving products out there! I know Mobic has been a lifesaver for my mother in law. It literally got her out of a wheelchair!
Talk to the Dr again...or might be time to switch docs!
I am about your age, and depressed too, but not on meds...just very unhappy with where I am in my life now, my marriage, my job, etc. I am close to your age and have 2 grown kids and 2 grandkids.
Say hello sometime, nice to meet people here that we share things in commom with.
Lesle