The 7 Subtle Habits People Use To Conceal Their Depression
Depression is never easily diagnosed, especially when many choose to suffer in silence.
We make ourselves feel alienated and often, decide there is no help.
If you or someone close to you display any of these habits, please try to reach out to them and let them know, there’s always a way.
- Odd sleeping and eating habits
It may seem small, but our eating and sleeping pattern may take a tremendous toll on our physical and mental health. Sleeping and eating too much or even too little may be red flags and should ever be overlooked.
- They usually are prone loners
Depression makes us prone to isolation. They may make excuses, cancel plans, even avoid contact altogether… Which highlights our next habit…
- It’s easy to create cover up stories
Elaborate excuses for them dodging you becoming too frequent? “No, I must bruise easily, gosh! You should have seen me as a kid” is one I used often…
- They sometimes seem TOO happy
Contradictory as it sounds, some people conceal their sadness by trying to come across as the opposite.
Sometimes, the saddest of us work the hardest to make others smile. And if you look carefully, they will seem over the top, because it’s the best they can do to create the scenario they think everyone else wants to see.
- When you’re hurting, so are they
We feel deeper than most, and this causes us to internalize your pain as well.
We know firsthand what sadness feels like and depressed people will go out of their way to let you know, you’re not alone. Deep inside, we wish others would do the same for us.
- Tiny, silent cries for help
Depressed folk don’t want to bother others with their issues. We carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, rarely whispering for some help.
You might hear a joke or a remark that if closely examined, means a lot more ad that’s how we communicate because it’s the only way we know how.
If you recognize this, please make sure they’re truly ok.
- Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities
I gave up horse riding – something I have done since I was 6. Depression comes with a sense of meaningless and strips people of their joy.
Keep an eye out for friends of family members who suddenly stop the lifetime of hiking, sewing or yoga classes – it may be more than a passed fad.
Depression is never easily diagnosed, especially when many choose to suffer in silence. We make ourselves feel alienated and often, decide there is no help. If you or someone close to you display any of these habits, please try to reach out to them and let them know, there’s always a way. Odd sleeping and…