Feelings are *always* valid. They might not be coming from the places we think they're coming from, but the feelings themselves are as real as anything. Something to keep in mind, however, is that emotional disorders like depression can distort our perception of reality. Feeling rejected is one thing, a person deliberately rejecting you is another. Your mother likely has no clue that her behavior has caused you pain, and I bet she'd be shocked to discover that you're harboring these feelings. Parents don't always parent perfectly, sometimes they're innocently going about their business while accidentally, and obliviously, ruffling their kids' feathers. Have you tried talking to her?