<font color="blue">Welcome to psych central mike! I hope you are able to read the many threads on this forum, they will share many of the basics of depression, imo.

Don't give up on your friend too soon, as many ppl want to understand, they just don't have enough information. She probably means well, and is only following the pattern of those around her. Once educated, you'll have a stronger support system.

It will be easier to counter your friend's ideas if you have support for yourself, someone IRL like a T (therapist) who will continually remind you about depression, and how to combat it.

Be sure to bookmark Psych central, and come back often. Tell us more about yourself, especially about what you are doing to overcome this miserable disorder.