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Depression can be hidden behind smiles and socializing. Recognize subtle signs early to protect your mental health and support others.
Depression doesn’t always show on the surface. Learn the hidden signs and take steps toward healing and support.
Depression wears many masks. It doesn’t always look like crying or visible sadness. In fact, many people struggling with depression seem “fine” on the outside, working, smiling, and socializing while quietly battling emotional pain within.
In today’s fast-paced world, where content about mental health is everywhere, it’s still easy to overlook the more subtle signs. Recognizing these early indicators is crucial to supporting ourselves and others before things worsen.
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Ankita Kaul, relationship counsellor and founder of Wifeyytalks, shares some hidden signs of depression that should never be ignored:
Social withdrawal
A sudden disinterest in being around even the closest friends and family members. The person may begin avoiding gatherings or prefer staying alone without explanation.
Extreme fatigue
Feeling constantly tired or low on energy, even with proper sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise.
Persistent low mood
A consistent sense of sadness, emptiness, or emotional heaviness, despite having no physical illness or clear reason.
Changes in eating habits
Emotional overeating, or in contrast, a complete loss of appetite. These changes are often linked to attempts at coping.
Loss of interest
Lack of excitement or motivation for activities that were once enjoyable or fulfilling.
Emotional numbness
Inability to feel happiness, even during events that would typically bring joy. Life may feel dull or meaningless.
Unexplained physical pain
Frequent headaches, backaches, or stomach problems that don’t have a clear medical cause.
Pretending to be okay
Putting on a happy face or forcing positivity while internally feeling exhausted, hopeless, or disconnected.
Desire for isolation
A strong urge to stay alone, often in one room, without interaction or communication for long periods.
Sleep disturbances
Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping excessively while still feeling unrested.
Mental health is the foundation of everything. If your physical health is low and mental health is good, you can overcome it. But even when your physical health is fine, poor mental health can impact your daily life, relationships, and personal growth.
These signs are not to be brushed off. If you or someone you know is experiencing them, don’t wait, reach out. Speak up. Help is available, and healing is possible.
About the Author
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
September 16, 2025, 12:18 IST
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Author: News18
