"Smiling Depression": What Is It? How to Assess Your Mental Health? What Are People With Depression Thinking?

Can someone who smiles also have depression? It may be confusing for many to understand the concept of "smiling depression." In reality, the existence of smiling depression reveals an important yet often overlooked issue in modern society: under the pressures of pursuing happiness and success, an individual's genuine feelings and mental health are often sacrificed.

That is, to outsiders, everything may seem normal, even a symbol of vitality and success, but in fact, they may be experiencing deep inner struggles, including loneliness, despair, self-doubt, and fear of the future. Let's take a look at the definition and signs of smiling depression!

What is Smiling Depression? The society generally advocates a positive and optimistic attitude towards life, encouraging people to stay positive in the face of difficulties. Against this cultural backdrop, many people choose to hide their negative emotions and present a happy facade, while their hearts are filled with pressure and dissatisfaction.

This phenomenon, often referred to as "smiling depression," is not a formal clinical diagnosis but is widely discussed in psychology and sociology as a manifestation of atypical depression.

Signs of Smiling Depression:

1. Masking Negative Emotions: Often hiding one's true feelings to avoid showing sadness or anxiety in front of others. Even if they are experiencing significant stress and pain internally, they choose to smile to prevent others from noticing their discomfort.

2. Wearing a Happy Mask: Accustomed to wearing a facade of happiness and confidence in public or when interacting with others. The mask serves as a shield to protect oneself from being seen as vulnerable by others, and it also represents an invisible pressure because of the need to constantly maintain this outward happiness.

3. Avoiding Negative Emotions: Instead of confronting the pain and anxiety inside, those with smiling depression choose to avoid these negative emotions. They divert their attention through work, entertainment, or other activities, trying to forget or temporarily escape the unpleasant feelings.

Conclusion:
Long-term neglect or suppression of genuine emotional needs, whether on an individual or societal level, can lead to severe consequences. Thus, awareness and understanding of "smiling depression" are not only crucial for the mental health of those affected but also for building a healthier, more open, and inclusive social environment.