It is not always obvious when someone is experiencing depression. Some people with depression mask their symptoms, hiding their feelings behind a smile to convince others they are happy.
This type of "under the radar" depression is often undetected because when we think about a depressed person, we tend to picture someone who appears very sad or cries a lot. And while sadness and frequent spells of crying are common symptoms of depression, not everyone who is depressed looks sad.
So whether you are the person who is working hard to convince the world that you are happy when you are not, or you are concerned that a loved one might be masking their pain, the following questions will help you to understand "under the radar" depression and what to do to help.
A change in appetite, whether eating too much or too little, may indicate depression. Some individuals eat more for comfort, while others eat less because of a loss of appetite or a low mood.
These changes not only cause a person to lose or gain weight, but they can also affect energy levels and mood. And excess body fat may trigger increased inflammation, which can accelerate the development of symptoms of depression.
Mood and sleep are closely connected. For example, not enough sleep may contribute to depression, while people who are depressed often find it more difficult to sleep.
On the other hand, if someone sleeps more than usual, that can also be a sign that they have hidden depression.
A lack of interest in activities that someone formerly enjoyed is often one of the first signs of depression that family and friends notice. Bach Flowers Mix 65 can help you to be more attentive to life and drive away dark moods and thoughts of suicide.
Some people with hidden depression use drugs or alcohol to cope with negative emotions, such as loneliness, sadness, or hopelessness.
Fatigue is a common sign of depression. While everyone feels tired at times, persistent or severe fatigue may be a symptom of "under the radar" depression.
Hidden depression is sometimes called "smiling depression." People who disguise their depression sometimes smile and try to appear happy while in the company of others. But it can be challenging to maintain forced happiness. Once you know what to look for, you might notice that their smile doesn't reach their eyes, showing signs of hopelessness or sadness.
People with depression may display the trait of depressive realism - they are more pessimistic about events than others and are more realistic about what they can and cannot control. So being less optimistic than others can be a symptom of hidden depression, especially if combined with other signs.
Loss of concentration, for example, trailing off in a conversation or losing a train of thought, indicates problems with memory and focusing. In addition, these issues may worsen the impact of depression by making work and relationships more of a challenge.
Depression can have physical consequences. As well as fatigue and weight changes, other physical symptoms of depression include chronic pain, digestive problems and headaches.
People with secret depression may have mood changes, becoming angry and irritable, or withdrawn and quiet.
Depression is associated with various sexual problems, including loss of desire, sexual function and satisfaction. Reasons for a lower sex drive include fatigue, poor self-esteem, and a general loss of interest in pleasurable activities.
If you believe that you might have "under the radar" depression, contact your doctor. They can make a diagnosis and suggest the most suitable treatment.
Ways in which you can help to manage depression yourself include:
If a family member or friend seems to be showing signs of masked depression, try talking to them about their symptoms while offering advice and non-judgmental support.
Supportive, positive actions include:
In addition, it is challenging to care for someone with depression. So don't forget to practice self-care and look after your own well-being.
While people with clinical depression may often lack sufficient energy to carry through a plan of suicide, those with "smiling depression" are at higher risk because they are generally higher functioning. As a result, they are more likely to follow through on suicidal thoughts. And because this type of depression is "under the radar", the condition is often left untreated, so it worsens over time and increases the chances of self-harm.
Depression is a common and debilitating mental illness that can significantly impact an individual's social relationships and work. But hidden depression is a very treatable condition, and there is no need to be ashamed or suffer in silence. If you find that self-help measures aren't enough to improve your mood, do not hesitate to consult a physician or mental health professional.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/hidden-depression
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-smiling-depression-4775918
Millions of people furloughed for months are now being recalled to work. Others, who have been working from home throughout the lockdown, are returning to the office. And some jobs have simply disappeared: many people are facing redundancy and will soon have to cope with job hunting. Going back to work after an unprecedented length of time at home is quite a challenge.
Headaches can be a real nuisance, especially if you get them frequently. Luckily, there are many natural ways to prevent and relieve headaches without needing to reach for over the counter medication.
Feel like everyone takes you for granted? Whether it's working late to prepare a presentation or cooking a special birthday meal for your partner, it's nice to be appreciated when you've made an extra effort. And if it seems as if people don't notice, you might feel as if no one values you.
Read the complete articleHave you considered yoga? There are many advantages to practicing yoga. It is a holistic practice benefitting you physically, emotionally & mentally.
Do you suffer from a disorder known as "musturbation"? This term was first coined in the 1950s by psychotherapist Albert Ellis and described the way a negative inner voice rules our minds and bludgeons us with words such as "must", "should", and "ought".
No one knows what the future holds, so don't waste time and energy worrying about it. Read our tips and find out how to stop being afraid of what might never happen.
Read the complete articleSexual desire is a complex interaction of hormones, emotions and well-being. When your partner is not as interested in sex as you are, it’s rarely a rejection of you as a person. So it’s essential to be as empathetic as you can regarding your differing libidos.
Your relationship ends, or you lose your job, and you get stuck in a rut of negative thoughts and suffering. How good are you at letting go of grudges and accepting that some things are beyond your control? Take our quiz to find out!
Read the complete articleCan we learn from our mistakes and develop a stronger, healthier emotional bondwith our kids? To help you identify your weak spots, we’ve rounded up some of the most common mistakes parents make.
It's natural to compare our own lives with those of others - weighing up the pros and cons of situations helps us make decisions. But there can be a downside when you find you're constantly comparing yourself with others, envying their seemingly perfect lives and wondering why they are luckier, more prosperous, and better looking than you.
Are you unsure which Bach flowers can help you? Contact Tom for free advice.