A WGU computer science degree costs about 3800 per six month period, btw, which is a decent option. I’m with you on avoiding a typical expensive college degree, though. I would personally recommend considering WGU after getting some experience so you can get through it faster (since it’s self paced).
Depression is a bitch. Most important thing is to try to stay ahead and keep ahead of it. Pick yourself back up every time, and it starts getting easier.
For me, I almost get an immediate sense that it’s starting to creep in, kind of like getting flashes before a migraine. I get to brace for impact. I think if it sneaks up on you like that, it may be a good idea to try to journal, just so you can maybe get a better sense of your daily moods and perhaps notice if there are any triggers that cause depressive episodes.