This misconception is annoying. Antidepressants are approved after trials that last only 6 weeks. I speak from personal experience after 10 years that long term use can lead to conditions becoming more chronic. Joseph Glenmullen md documents many cases of tics and involuntary movement in his book "prozac backlash". There is in reality not a lot of reliable scientific information about long term use being safe, and there is much to suggest the contrary. refer Robert whittaker, Joseph Glenmullen md or Peter Breggin md to name a few.
I personally would say no--not at all. I acquired 1st degree heart block from prozac years ago (confirmed by 2 cardiologists) , and now i am dealing with long term effects from being on effexor 11 years. I believe if you can help it, go to a natural doctor---I am not a fan of using herbs without research either though, as they too can cause side effects---best thing for you to do is RESEARCH.
According to medical information, both types of medication have been proved effective and safe for 5 - 10 year periods provided you are monitored by your medical practitioner whilst taking them.
I personally do not recommend the use of any antidepressants before trying holistic therapies. Speaking from experience, these medications come with side effects that can last long term and eventually contribute to more problems than you started with.
However if this is for fibromyalgia or other physical ailments then long term use is sometimes necessary.