Annie-
I am really sorry you have hit a rough patch. Living with chronic illness sometimes feels like a permanent, perpetual rough patch.
When times are tough I do exactly as you did and reach for my support sys who "gets it". I agree w Maggie that some times it is harder for others to cope with the new us than it is for us, but I digress.
I also do all the usuals: journal, meditate, stretch, read the latest science, watch a documentary then fall into the reality tv abyss.

and watch my brain cells implode!
I'm also learning to accept that some days just stink and the sooner I go to bed the sooner Ill see the light of a new day.
Tell that water that your east coast pal is saying "get lost or else"!
Wishing you a better day tomorrow.