Jess, first of all, never, never, give up. Life has a funny way of turning the corner into something just a little better just when youre ready to throw in the towel and say the heck with everything. I know this sounds strange but keep on trying to act "as if". Sometimes the mind cant tell the difference - whether were pretending or really happy - and you may find yourself actually smiling at something momentarily. Savor that moment. Hold onto it in your mind. Several of these mini-moments start to add up and may eventually turn into an hour or too when you can forget your troubles and actually enjoy an outing, a dinner, a christmas carol on the radio, etc.

Force yourself to get out. When I am really, really depressed, I get dressed (dont worry about showering) and go to my local bookstore. I sit surrounded by people, warmth, conversation, books, etc for a couple of hours. I drink my favorite frozen coffee drink (forget the calories!) and read something interesting. I dont read fashion or home magazines because I would compare myself and get depressed. Usually a good mystery. I force myself to interact with the cashier and at least one other person in the store, and usually go home feeling much better.

As far as people not being 100% happy with you, so what? Join the human race. No one is perfect. Just do the best you can while youre depressed, and cut yourself some slack if youre not bouncing around like Pollyanna.

Lots of hugs to you! Take care of yourself.