Smiling in the company of others but crying in solitude—what is ‘masked depression’?
In ‘masked depression,’ an individual may appear normal, happy, or active on the outside, while experiencing deep-seated sadness, hopelessness, and stress internally.
Many people seek to manage daily stress through activities like listening to music, traveling, or practicing *pranayama* (breathing exercises)—a concept that has existed for a long time. Awareness regarding this issue is growing over time. Nevertheless, it remains crucial to accept that experiencing mental health struggles is just as common as dealing with other types of health issues.
Even when you feel like everything is normal, you might actually be struggling with a mental health issue. You may continue with your daily routine and seem perfectly fine when in a group, yet feel a sense of inner turmoil when alone—this could be a sign of a mental health problem.
What is ‘masked depression’?
‘Masked depression’—also referred to as hidden depression—is a mental health issue that remains concealed. In this state, even the individuals themselves may perceive themselves as doing just fine. They might be unable to recognize that they are suffering from a mental health issue, or they may be actively hiding it.
Outwardly, such individuals may appear normal, happy, or active. They might smile in front of others and act as though everything is perfectly fine. However, when in solitude, they may experience profound sadness, hopelessness, or mental stress; they might struggle with sleep, or even have thoughts of suicide.
‘Masked depression’ is not a distinct mental health disorder in itself. Rather, the term is used to describe a situation where the symptoms of depression are not clearly visible to the outside world. It is possible to determine the situation by identifying the symptoms.
Symptoms
– Appearing happy on the outside—laughing with others, having fun, and staying active at work—while feeling sad or hopeless on the inside.
– Experiencing persistent fatigue or a lack of physical energy.
– Physical ailments such as headaches, body aches, heart palpitations, or gastritis.
– Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) or excessive sleeping.
– Significant changes in appetite—either eating much more or much less than usual.
– Becoming easily angered or annoyed by minor matters, a desire to withdraw from others, and increased irritability.
– Difficulty focusing on work, making decisions, or losing interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
What should be done?
– Let go of the belief that "nothing is wrong" or that it is impossible for you to have a mental health issue.
– Share the emotions and challenges you are experiencing with someone you trust.
– If feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest persist for two weeks or longer, consult a mental health professional.
If someone is having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, do not leave them alone; seek immediate assistance from the nearest hospital or mental health service provider.
In reality, people often imagine someone struggling with depression or stress as someone who is always sad or socially isolated. However, individuals suffering from depression can also appear highly productive and socially active. Therefore, rather than limiting depression solely to a specific range of symptoms, it is important to understand it through professional counseling.
