We all want to start our day with a smile and if not, at least by seeing a smiling face, someone happy and not wearing a scowl on their face. But did you know that not all smiling persons are happy? And we are not just asking you to not judge a book by its cover. In fact, there is something called smiling depression. You heard it right.
Smiling depression is when individuals hide their depression behind a smile. Despite appearing happy on the outside, these individuals may be struggling with feelings of despair and sadness internally. Because they are able to hide their depression well, people with smiling depression often do not seek the treatment they need.
This untreated depression puts them at a higher risk of self-harm and suicide. However, doctors can address smiling depression through medications and different behavioral therapies, even though it can be difficult to recognise.
Medical condition or disorder? Understanding smiling depression
Smiling depression is not classified as a medical condition, but rather a term employed by mental health professionals to characterize individuals who have a depressive disorder but conceal their symptoms from others. Despite being able to engage in daily activities, individuals with smiling depression privately grapple with a severe mood disorder.
It is important to differentiate depression from transient feelings of sadness or the blues. While temporary sadness typically has a discernible cause and subsides after a brief period, depression often persists for extended durations, leaving individuals with a sense of hopelessness and desolation. Depression is an all-encompassing and persistent state that significantly hampers an individual’s functional capabilities.
Depression is a prevalent mood disorder. According to the World Health Organization, there are over 264 million individuals worldwide affected by depression across all age groups. Individuals might conceal their depression with a smile due to various reasons, such as:
- Concerns about others’ opinions
- Desire not to be a source of burden to others
- Fear of potential job loss
- Belief that pretending to be happy will alleviate the depression
- Lack of awareness about their depressive state
- Uncertainty about how to seek assistance.
Signs of smiling depression
Depression manifests uniquely in individuals, with a range of symptoms that may include persistent feelings of profound sadness. Additional common indicators encompass alterations in appetite, weight, and sleep patterns, as well as feelings of fatigue, hopelessness, diminished self-esteem, and reduced self-worth. Furthermore, individuals may experience a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that previously brought them joy.
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Someone who is dealing with smiling depression may exhibit any or all of the aforementioned signs, but in public, these indicators would largely, if not entirely, be absent. From an external perspective, an individual with smiling depression may appear to be:
- A proactive and efficient individual who is actively engaged in various activities
- Someone who is successfully maintaining a stable job, while also having a supportive family and an active social life
- An individual who seems to be constantly cheerful, optimistic, and generally content.
Smiling depression is a condition where individuals may experience thoughts of death and suicide due to depression. However, unlike other forms of depression, individuals with smiling depression may lack the motivation and energy to carry out a plan for suicide.
It is important to note that while all individuals with depression are at risk of suicide, those with smiling depression, who appear high-functioning, may be at an even higher risk. Additionally, individuals with smiling depression often do not seek treatment, which can further exacerbate their condition and increase the chances of suicide.
Treatment
The positive news is that smiling depression can be effectively treated. If you suspect that you may be experiencing it, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist or another mental health professional as a first step. It is not uncommon for individuals with smiling depression to maintain a facade even when interacting with therapists.
This can make it more challenging for you to receive the necessary assistance. It is crucial to open up and honestly express your emotions. Your doctor or therapist will assist you in determining whether antidepressant medications may be beneficial for you.
In addition, there are other measures that may aid in your recovery:
- Confide in a trusted friend or loved one about your feelings. This can alleviate the burden of concealing your true emotions.
- Spend time outdoors in nature.
- Engage in regular exercise, even if it’s just for 10-15 minutes a day, as it can have a positive impact on your mood.
- Listen to music, engage in artistic activities, or participate in other enjoyable hobbies.
- Practice meditation.
Taking the step to be your authentic self can be a significant stride towards overcoming smiling depression.
Ways to support someone dealing with smiling depression
If you suspect that someone you know is experiencing smiling depression, it’s important to express your concerns. It’s crucial to normalise discussions about mental health and have a conversation with them about seeking help.
Besides offering emotional support, you can also provide practical assistance, such as offering to drive them to a medical appointment or even accompanying them if appropriate. Additionally, it would be helpful to guide them towards community resources and inform them about available mental health services.
In case your loved one refuses to seek help, it might be beneficial for you to consider speaking with a therapist yourself. Talking to a professional can assist you in managing your own stress while also reinforcing effective strategies to support someone you deeply care about.
Don’t hesitate to seek assistance and take that initial leap. With proper care and encouragement, your inner emotions will soon reflect the bright smile you wear on your face.
