Smiling Depression: What is it and Why Does it Occur?

In the United States, millions struggle with depression. Depression is a common occurrence for many people, regardless of whether genetics, external factors, or a combination of both are to blame. While some look for support from a professional or support group for depression, it is more difficult for others. Many people find themselves acting as though they don’t have it. They try to hide their discomfort from those around them while maintaining their smile. “Smiling depression” is the name given to this phenomenon.

Why does smiling depression occur?

Though it is not included in the DSM, smiling depression is still a form of clinical depression that many people struggle with. A person with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who hides their symptoms is said to be “smiling depressed.” “Hiding behind a smile” is a common phrase used to describe it. If someone is attempting to convince others that they are fine even though they are not, they may be dealing with this.

Symptoms and signs of smiling depression

The typical symptoms of major depressive disorder are experienced by people who suffer from smiling depression, also known as high-functioning major depressive disorder. This encompasses emotions like melancholy, hopelessness, rage, or irritability. It might also involve boredom, exhaustion, irregular sleep patterns, decreased appetite, binge eating, anxiety, and much more.

If you have these symptoms but are otherwise functioning well, managing things like your job and social schedule that people with more severe depression would be unable to manage, you may be suffering from smiling depression. High-functioning MDD sufferers may also come off as upbeat or optimistic. They frequently feel as though they must conceal their depressive symptoms.

What makes them hide it?

A person with high-functioning MDD may conceal their symptoms for a variety of reasons. The most common reasons are listed below.

Feeling burdensome.

Many people who experience depression frequently believe that they are a burden to those around them. People may try to conceal their symptoms to lessen that feeling.

Shame.

Despite significant efforts, there is still a stigma associated with mental illness. If they feel ashamed or embarrassed about their symptoms, some people may try to conceal them.

Denial.

For many people, admitting that they might need assistance with their mental health is a very big step. Instead of seeking out support for their depression, people may choose to hide their symptoms if they are in denial about them or do not want them to be real.

Keeping up appearances.

Someone accustomed to playing a particular role in their life may conceal their symptoms to maintain their role. This could be an attempt to gain control over yourself and your circumstances or a form of denial.

Smiling depression’s key risk

Severe depression can frequently put a person at risk of suicide. One may consider dying as a result of depression symptoms. Because they are not receiving the necessary care, people with smiling depression frequently have a higher risk of taking their own lives.

Fewer people are aware of what they are going through because of their high level of function. The likelihood of suicide is higher in people with smiling depression than in people with low-functioning MDD.

Helping others

You must get help from a mental health professional if you suspect that you are dealing with high-functioning depressive disorder. Finding the support you require to recover from depression can be made easier by working with a therapist close to you.

Inform that person of your worries if you believe they are experiencing smiling depression. It’s crucial to start up that conversation so they are aware of the support they can rely on. Try to connect them with a mental health professional while you pay attention to them.

Use your concern for a friend’s mental well-being as motivation to reach out to them rather than running away. Noticing an issue and alerting them could provide them with the motivation they require.

Three ways to support someone who is depressed

People who are depressed frequently find it difficult to communicate with their loved ones. Loving someone who suffers from depression can be challenging and frustrating at times. Helping others and providing for their needs is not always simple.

Unfortunately, many respond by saying things like, “Just pray more,” “Get more exercise,” or “You just need to think yourself into a better place,” which are dismissive and simple. These kinds of suggestions and declarations discount the experience of those who are dealing with depression.

Another common but improper practice is comparing pain. A client I once worked with in therapy told me that her nurse (while she was being treated in a mental hospital) had told her to be glad that her issues aren’t worse. The nurse continued by describing how her husband passed away, leaving her a widow supporting two young children. Doubtless, some of the things people say to those who are depressed have good intentions, but mere good intentions rarely result in pain relief.

What can you do to help? The depressed person might say that having your quiet company would be beneficial, or perhaps they just need someone to listen with compassion. Be welcoming and kind. The individual may require transportation to an appointment or someone to pick up a prescription.

Offer some specific suggestions if the person is unable to communicate their needs. Ask if they’d like to leave the house or if you could come over and visit them. Offer to watch the person’s children for a few hours. Check to see if they require a store pick-up for anything. Even the most routine tasks, like grocery shopping or meal planning, can seem like enormous, impossible tasks when a person is depressed.

1. Listen without passing judgment.

Don’t bring up the fact that your friend’s friend Gladys has cancer and is in worse shape. The phrase “Well, at least” should not be used. Allow your friend to express any pain or hopelessness. Simply say, “I love you and I’m sorry you’re in pain,” if you’re at a loss for words.

2. Inquire about the person’s feelings or thoughts of suicide.

It can be very difficult to do this because it may seem intrusive. But because someone had the guts to ask, many lives have been saved. If the person admits to having suicidal thoughts, offer to take them to the hospital and/or inform the person’s loved ones, therapist, or physician.

Being by yourself while feeling suicidal is dangerous. It could mean the world to simply sit with the person while they rest and read a book or the newspaper. See this recent article for more details on how to support someone who is contemplating suicide.

3. Love the individual.

With your words, your touch, and your presence, show someone you care. People who are depressed sometimes feel as though no one genuinely cares about them. Tell the person how much they mean to you. If necessary, be specific about your reasoning.

Consider sharing this article with loved ones, family members, or friends who appear baffled by how to interact with a depressed person – possibly even you. Let them know that you are aware that it can be challenging to know how to react to someone who is depressed and that these suggestions might be useful.

Relationships are challenging. Everyone can feel compassion and empathy, though some people are more naturally compassionate and empathic than others. Being present and accessible will go a long way toward providing support. Contact us for any counseling needs that may arise.