Count yourself blessed that you have a few good friends, work on those bonds for they are the ones that matter - and that environment will make you feel more positive in other situations.

It is terrible when it is family members who are the most abusive, all I can say is rise above them - they are projecting their own insecurities and small-mindedness. If they are not close relatives, avoid them as much as possible.

I still find it almost impossible to take a compliment. On our Sister Site I have a reputation for being caring, but when someone points this out to me I feel undeserving, guilty even that a glimmer of goodness has entered my World. I have never been able to resolve this issue myself, but would implore you to trust that people can be genuinely complimentary towards you. It is a mistrustful, sorrowful life with a negative view of everyone.

Dave.