Happy Boxing Day, Silver_Moon!

In an earlier post, you mentioned how your own family derides you. I can see how you might be specially sensitive to making good impressions. What is your boyfriend's family like? Do they know about your depression? Might they be more understanding? Are you afraid to take a chance with them?

I'm sorry about this understandable dilemma (rude vs. mood). Also, I'm not sure it's possible to answer your me-them question definitively. The two may be deeply intertwined.

What will contribute most to long-term happiness?

Best wishes! Please keep posting.