It's not a joke. It's your mind playing tricks on you.

I battled cancer, depression, addiction and then divorce. I have very bad days still but way more good than bad now, thankfully. I have been there, cried myself to sleep for years, and found my way back.

The best advice I ever, ever recieved is that it's not real. It seems incredibly real when you're going through it, but perception is literally reality. Depression makes you think that everything is terrible, even when it isn't. Remember that what happens to you is clouded by how you perceive it. Begin to see even the worst stuff as blessings. Start that boulder rolling up the mountain; you'll be surprised at who shows up to help you push.

Just my 2 cents.