I really like them, along with all the other repetitive types of posts people make. For people who have been using Linux awhile, or have been a part of this community (or any Linux community really) they get a bit old, sure, but each new post is an opportunity for other new Linux users to learn and contribute.
I think sequestering discussion like this into nicely planned neat boxes like sticky threads or weekly discussions is harmful in the long term. While it may keep the posts in this community "clean" I believe it will reduce interest and turn away fresh blood.
I think those of us who have been using Linux awhile should embrace these posts and view them as opportunities to mentor, and as opportunities to continue to stoke the fires of interest in Linux.
Are you on BTRFS? If so maybe you could restore to a snapshot prior to the apt upgrade?
I'm not very familiar with Debian, but perhaps there are official "groups" of packages that comprise a set of softwares, like KDE. Perhaps you could re-install that group, if it exists?
You could also create a new user, log in as that user, and see if the issue persists. If so then you'll know it's a system wide issue. If not, then maybe you could migrate to the new user?
Good luck!