Dear JustElle,
I just got your reply (I know, I really should have checked this a long time ago!), and I just wanted to say thank you so much for taking the time to give me such thoughtful advice; you've really made me feel a lot better!!!! Your words were very kind and uplifting, and it's nice to know that I'm not alone.
I'm sorry that you have felt let down by people you cared about; I know how that feels. That's great, though, that you've been able to be strong and count your blessings; I'm trying to be more grateful for what I have. I definetely agree with you that people who don't suffer from depression can never truly understand how difficult it is...Some of my closest friends are people who can identify with how I'm feeling, since they've been through it, too.
Thanks again for your reply, and take care!!!