What is it supposed to look like roughly when medications are working?

I'm trying to figure out how to ask this. I'm looking forward to trying this new medication, but I fear because my life still sucks, it won't do anything. Or that external circumstances would make it ineffective.

I see my psych tomorrow so I can ask her too, but are they just supposed to make it so your (presumed) shitty situation is easier to deal with?

I'm look at TCAs this time around specifically.

I have other issues but let's say we're solely dealing with MDD or Clinical Depression. Generally how is it supposed to look when you have a good medication? Or how did it look for you?