Hidden Depression

Depression is one of the world’s most common illnesses. The chances are, you know someone who is struggling with depression at this moment, but they don’t show it. Hidden depression (also called smiling depression and concealed depression) is colloquial term used to describe individuals that hide depression, or are unaware of being depressed.

People with depression often feel capped by their negative emotional state. They consistently feel a deep sense of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt, emptiness and/or irritability. It is also common for people to feel disconnected from the things that once brought them pleasure, laughter and satisfaction. However, it’s important to consider that feelings and thoughts are internal factors that are controlled from within, and they can go undetected from the outside world. That means that an individual can feel depressed internally, but exhibit prosocial behaviors externally. However, it is possible for depression to manifest into physical symptoms. Oftentimes, doctors and patients are left astounded due to inconclusive test and the existence of bodily ailments (i.e., pain, fatigue, weakness, significant changes in weight/ appetite, drug craving). That is because unexplainable physical illness can be a result of mental distress.

The use of language is another telltale sign of depression. People tend to use more self-focused words like “I,” and “me” when they are in an introspective state. This means that as individuals are oriented towards how they feel and what they think, their language becomes reflective of their self-focus. In addition, people with depression tend to have unhelpful thinking styles, such as all-or-nothing. Research has also shown that people with depression tend to use more absolute language, such as “never” or “always.” This kind of language conveys that things are either one way or the other, there is little to no gray area. Likewise, people with depression may exhibit an air of pessimism. They may have a poor outlook of self, others and the world. You may hear them using words like “I can’t” or “I should.” Individuals who are suicidal may discuss existential matters of life.

Depression is different from having a negative reaction to life’s challenges. Individuals suffering from depression will feel the symptoms most of the day, nearly every day for at least two weeks. Depression causes a significantly distressing internal experience, and depressive symptoms and episodes can be rated as mild, moderate or severe. Still, depression is different for everyone. You can smile, appear happy and still have depression. The ability to maintain a normative outer appear does not make depression any less dangerous. Depression symptoms can come and go, and change in intensity depending on your circumstance.

The most common roadblock to asking for help is fear of the “vulnerability hangover.” The vulnerability hangover represents the residual feelings of awkwardness, shame, guilty after disclosing personal information. If you notice that you or a loved one may be depressed, it is crucial to seek treatment right away. Asking for help is okay, and depression is manageable! The most common forms of treating depression remains to be mood stabilizers and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.