Smiling Depression


Ally Hannan, Staff Writer

Major depressive disorder: a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Otherwise known as depression, major depressive disorder affects the way someone thinks and feels, and can ultimately lead to physical problems as well. Smiling depression is another form of depression where someone from the outside appears happy, but on the inside is experiencing the symptoms of depression. Symptoms of depression include: fatigue, changes in appetite, weight, and sleeping, hopelessness, low self-esteem or self-worth, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed.

On the other hand, people with smiling depression from the outside appear active, optimistic, and cheerful. Suffering from this form of depression can make one feel that the world would be better off without them, or it would be a burden to those around them if they expressed their feelings. In a common depressive episode, energy levels are very low, making it even harder to get out of bed. With smiling depression, a person’s energy levels may remain the same, unless alone. Many cases of smiling depression come as a shock because of the facade they put up. 

Causes of smiling depression can be due to big changes in a person’s life. Such changes include the loss of a job, a family member, or can just be an everyday thing. The way people feel depression can be different from others. Some may feel more physical rather than emotional and vice versa. 

Diagnosing smiling depression can be done by a health provider. They will ask questions about a person’s symptoms and if any big life changes have occurred. They may even refer you to a psychiatrist if medication or further therapy is needed. A great way to help smiling depression is finding someone such as a family member, friend, or professional you feel comfortable opening up to. If you know someone that may be experiencing this, be the person they can open up to or direct them to the help they may need.