A lot of people attribute depression with sadness, loneliness or any outward signs associated with this mental disorder. However, there’s a certain type of depression called concealed depression, or smiling depression, which doesn’t have any obvious signs and is difficult to detect.
Here’s some important information that moms and dads need to know about this lesser-known type of depression.
How does concealed depression happen?
Depression doesn’t always have visible signs.
People who are suffering from concealed depression hide the fact that they’re sad or depressed. They usually put a facade that they’re happy or satisfied, and they appear to function normally, or even seem happy.
The truth of the matter is that they’re secretly fighting their own demons inside, or dealing with their problems alone.
This makes the problem even worse, since many cases of this type of depression tend to go undiagnosed. The sufferer can sometimes not even be aware that they have depression.
Know the signs of concealed depression
Here are some important signs that moms and dads should be aware of:
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits.
- Sudden feelings of fear and anxiety.
- A sudden change in behavior.
- A dip in their grades, or a lack of interest in school.
- Tendency to be alone or not spend time with family members.
- Lack of appetite.
- Tendency to be sedentary or being less active.
If you notice any of these signs in your child, make sure to talk to them about it. They themselves might not be aware that they’re already suffering from depression. It’s important to always seek help and to not make your child feel bad if they have depression.
Make them understand that depression can happen to anyone, and being depressed doesn’t mean that there’s something wrong with them. Be supportive, and be with your child every step of the way.
Sources: popsugar.com, themighty.com
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