Everyone has been affected by the recession and chances are people, including your friends, are hurting worse that you think. You just have to take a closer look at the subtle hints. Find out what your friends are really saying with that IM:
Translation: I don't get paid until Thursday the 15th. 
Translation: They cut hours at work and I can only afford to eat once a day. 
Translation: It wasn't on sale so I couldn't afford it. 
Translation: I pawned it off for cash to pay my car loan. 
Translation: I'm in need of charity and I'm not paying a dime. 
Translation: I like you, but I like my money more. 
Translation: We'll be clipping coupons all night long. 
Translation: Haven't been able to afford 3 meals a day in a long time. 
Translation: The alcohol at that place is way too expensive. Make sure you're saving the right amount each month so that you can avoid having to make excuses online.