But what about for those of us who are like really severely depressed, but still have a sense of humor??

Can you deal with the gloom and the doom AND the fun all wrapped into one package?

I think the formula for staying good friends with me seems to be (1) having a fun and quirky sense of humor- otherwise, you won't get my humor, (2) being able to deal with my imperfections- including trust issues and depression and PTSD, (3) making your boundaries clear, and asking for support when you need it (aka not expecting me to read your mind, especially when I'm a mess myself). I try my darnedest to give all of those things in return, too. And personally, I think I'm a lot of fun and a great support to my friends.

My therapist and I were discussing things recently, too, and she said an essential piece (that has been missing in some of my relationships) is to recognize the imperfections in yourself, eachother, and the relationship, have your quarrels about it, and then PATCH IT UP. (She brought it up after the first time I confronted her because she hurt my feelings). She says that if you have an illusion of perfection, the relationship is doomed to fail. Or if you can't to come to them when things have hurt you, you're doomed to fail. And if you can't manage to patch things up, it's not going to work. She says these are all important parts of a healthy, reality-based relationship. I thought that was very enlightening, especially in consideration of my own history of relationship issues.

But I ramble! lol!

Angela