How do you cope with the pressure to "just be happy" from friends and family?

Many of us know that pressure to "just be happy" all too well. It often comes from friends and family who mean well but just don’t fully understand what we’re dealing with. Sometimes it feels like there's this unspoken expectation that we should just flip a switch and feel better, but we know it's not that simple. One thing that has helped me is finding ways to express what I'm really feeling. When someone says, “Just cheer up!” instead of letting it get to me, I try to share a bit about my experience. I might say, “I wish it were that simple! Some days, it’s just really hard for me.” Even if they don’t fully get it, opening up a little can ease that pressure and help them understand that it’s not about choosing happiness; it’s about managing what feels heavy. Another approach some of us find useful is setting boundaries with those who don’t understand our struggles. It’s okay to step back from conversations that feel dismissive or invalidating. We can gently remind our loved ones that we’re working through our feelings, and sometimes we just need them to listen rather than offer solutions. Having even one person in your life who truly understands this can make a world of difference. I found someone nearby who gets it, and we’ve started talking regularly. Just knowing they’re there for me takes off some of that pressure. We might also explore activities that bring us joy, even in small doses. It could be a hobby, a walk in nature, or listening to music that resonates with where we are. But remember, it’s okay to not feel happy while doing these things. Those moments don’t have to be the ultimate goal; they can just be a nice break from the heaviness we carry. Anyone else dealing with this pressure? Sometimes just one real conversation with someone who gets it changes everything. What strategies have you found that help you cope with the expectations around happiness?