The quick answer is yes, you perceive your ability to adapt slower when you first begin the process of adaption. When depressed the mind moves quickly to one scenario after another and is constantly working to deal with the stress this causes. However, when one chooses to change their mindset and live presently, they see that life moves at a slower pace than the mind does. Meditation is key to staying present and essential to overcoming the desire to slide back into a depressing mindset.

There is no way to speed up your connection to your life. The harder you try to force a connection, the more distant one will become. Oneness with life must be earned in order to be appreciated. If we are given something without working for it, then our ability to express gratitude is limited. There are certain lessons that need to be grasped that take time to understand. Life is a short process, my friend.
“Success is about the journey, not the destination.” Enjoy the process and find happiness in the present moment. In this moment, you’re striving to be better, you’re choosing to overcome depression with happiness and you’re learning how to empower yourself. That is something you should be proud of and something that takes a lot of bravery. Just learn to have a sense of humor with life and realize that you’re exactly where you need to be.

I hope this helps. Good luck on your journey.
thepathofaronin.blogspot.com is my personal blog, feel free to check it out if you are ever in need.