I have to agree the AA-style principles and structure might be helpful for the OP, but IMO Emotions Anonymous would be much more appropriate. It is a 12 step program for mental health. There are 326 groups in Canada...click here to locate one near you.... http://www.emotionsanonymous.org
Here are some workbooks that could be a nice adjunct to seeing your counselor: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/002-5650794-5009639?url=index%3Dblended&field-keywords=depression+workbook
Is there a medical person at your college that could help you with your questions about Effexor, or is there a medical school nearby that has a psychiatry program? A teaching hospital or medical school may be a good resource to get your quesitons answered. Most medications have their own website--Effexor extended release: http://www.effexorxr.com/ Just take it all with a grain of salt. Keep in mind all medications have side effects. Read a bottle of aspirin--one possible side effect is sudden death. Just because it's listed doesn't mean it's common. There is a free patient support program on that website that offers telephone support.