Disclaimer.....please note there is no Dr. or Phd associated with this frog of little brain.

First off....learn to accept that you can love (biological response) but not "like" someone. Especially true when dealing with family. From now to forever you will be family but you do not have to like them, associate with them or talk to them (other than being civil). If they disown you it could be the best decision "you" ever made.

Second....you are in that void between what was and what is going to be. Starting back to school is a big step forward and I'm glad you decided to take it. The anxiety of returning to school would be enough to turn me into a basket case. Getting back involved there may help with the friends situation, defuse the family situation and open avenues to changing you living arrangements.

I don't know what you consider up-north or down here. For me Walt Disney World and Orlando are up north. There is a self-help group in my area dealing specifically with depression. You might also check in to clinical trials, research and study groups in your area. IMHO "free" is always a good word.

PC has some good information on the site which might help. You will also find many warm and understanding members here.

Good luck. You can do it just trust in yourself.