Typically, smiling depression takes place if individuals who are experiencing depression mask their symptoms.
They hide behind a smile to convince other people that they are happy.
Individuals with smiling depression often look happy to the outside world and keep their depression a secret.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Here’s an overview of the signs and symptoms of smiling depression.
Some of these symptoms may be observable to others, while other symptoms may be kept private.
It’s not uncommon for people with smiling depression to work really hard to disguise their symptoms.
They may hold down a steady job and continue to maintain an active social life.
They may even appear cheerful and optimistic.
For this reason, it’s important to talk about mental health issues in an open way.
Doing so may give them the courage to open up about their feelings.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Here’s a closer look at why people keep depression a secret.
Fear of Burdening Others
Depression and guilt tend to go hand-in-hand.
Consequently, many individuals dont want to burden anyone else with their struggles.
They simply do not know how to ask for help, so they keep their struggles to themselves.
Embarrassment
Some people believe depression is a character flaw or a sign of weakness.
They may even believe the lie that they should be able to “snap out of it.”
When they cannot, they think there’s something wrong with them.
Denial
Smiling depression may stem from a persons denial that they feel depressed.
They may think that as long as theyre smiling, they must not have depression.
Many people cannot admit that there might be something wrong with them.
Fear of Backlash
Sometimes people worry about the personal and professional ramifications of having depression.
Or, someone may worry that a partner will leave them if they reveal that they have depression.
So, rather than risk being judged or punished for being depressed, they hide behind a smile.
They would rather put on a tough exterior than admit that they need help.
They might think they have a good life and shouldnt feel bad.
Consequently, they feel guilty and sometimes even ashamed of their depression.
So they keep it hidden behind a smile.
Unrealistic Views of Happiness
Social media portrays happiness in an unrealistic way.
Many people scroll through social media and see pictures of happy people.
Perfectionism
Perfectionistshave often mastered the art of looking perfect.
And, for many, that means disguising any pain or problems they are experiencing.
Risk of Suicide
Depression often causes thoughts of death and suicide.
Individuals with smiling depression often have enough energy to follow through on their suicidal thoughts.
What’s more, individuals with smiling depression often go untreated as well.
And untreated depression may get worse over time and increase the likelihood of suicide.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Treatment for Smiling Depression
Someone with smiling depression might officially be diagnosed with depression with atypical features.
For instance, looking happy isnt typical of someone who feels depressed.
But just like other types of depression, smiling depression is treatable.
Treatment may include medication, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
Normalize mental health issues and talk to them about how they can get help.
Offer emotional support as well as practical support.
Direct them to community resources as well.
Tell them about mental health services that may be available to them.
If a loved one refuses to get help, you might consider talking to a therapist yourself.
Take the first step and reach out for help.
Shetty P, Mane A, Fulmali S, Uchit G.Understanding masked depression: A clinical scenario.Indian J Psychiatry.
2018;(42)2:116-128. doi:10.5993/AJHB.42.2.11
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Mental health conditions: Depression and anxiety.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.What it’s crucial that you know about “smiling depression.”
