{"id":26886,"date":"2023-01-31T14:31:32","date_gmt":"2023-01-31T21:31:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/?p=26886"},"modified":"2024-03-11T14:00:43","modified_gmt":"2024-03-11T21:00:43","slug":"smiling-depression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/depression\/smiling-depression\/","title":{"rendered":"Smiling Depression: How Happy Faces Can Mask Depression"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Smiling depression is not always easy for parents to identify. The typical signs of depression, such as changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels, may not be obvious, resulting in what\u2019s essentially a secret <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/depression-in-teens\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">depression<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> that\u2019s difficult to spot.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re the parent of a teenager, it&#8217;s important to understand this condition so you can recognize the symptoms and help your child.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-smiling-depression-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What Is Smiling Depression? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-smiling-depression-symptoms-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Smiling Depression Symptoms &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-teens-with-depression-can-appear-happy-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Why Teens With Depression Can Appear Happy &nbsp;<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-a-desire-to-fit-in-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">A desire to fit in &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-fear-of-being-a-burden-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">A fear of being a burden &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-negative-stigma-around-mental-illness-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">A negative stigma around mental illness &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-desire-to-protect-their-loved-ones-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">A desire to protect their loved ones &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-risk-of-suicide-in-smiling-depression-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Risk of Suicide in Smiling Depression &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-to-help-with-smiling-depression-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">How To Help With Smiling Depression &nbsp;<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-nbsp-love-and-accept-your-teen-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">1.&nbsp; Love and accept your teen &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-normalize-conversations-about-depression-and-suicidal-ideation\" data-level=\"3\">2. Normalize conversations about depression and suicidal ideation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-seek-treatment-for-smiling-depression-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">3. Seek treatment for smiling depression &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-encourage-good-health-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">4. Encourage good health &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-5-help-them-develop-connections-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">5. Help them develop connections &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-6-be-patient-and-understanding\" data-level=\"3\">6. Be patient and understanding<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-7-teach-self-care-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">7. Teach self-care &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-8-educate-yourself-and-find-support-for-yourself-nbsp\" data-level=\"3\">8. Educate yourself and find support for yourself &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-smiling-depression-wrapup-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Smiling Depression: Wrapup &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-smiling-depression-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What Is Smiling Depression?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Smiling depression is a mental health condition characterized by a person&#8217;s ability to hide how depressed they are behind a facade of happiness and contentment.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> It\u2019s called smiling depression, or sometimes walking depression, because individuals who are struggling with this issue may often smile and appear happy despite being sad or hopeless.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although it isn\u2019t designated as a technical diagnosis under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Embark Behavioral Health Treatment Director Jake Sparks, a licensed marriage and family therapist, said this hidden sadness is still a very real condition.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When asked to explain just what is smiling depression, Sparks said, \u201cWith smiling depression, teens internally feel symptoms of depression, including persistent sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and low energy \u2014 all of the things we associate with normal depression. However, they\u2019re able to present themselves to the world as someone who doesn\u2019t have those symptoms.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-smiling-depression-symptoms-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Smiling Depression Symptoms<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While the outward symptoms of smiling depression can vary from teen to teen, some common indicators include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Loss of interest in pleasurable activities:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> According to Sparks, many people with smiling depression feel like \u201cNothing is a \u2018want to.\u2019 Everything becomes a \u2018have to\u2019 instead.\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fatigue:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> They may seem tired often.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hopelessness:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> They may feel they\u2019ll never get out of their rut or stop feeling their negative emotions. This sense of hopelessness from depression leads them to avoid getting treatment or asking for help because they feel there\u2019s no point.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Changes in appetite, weight, or sleep:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Sparks said, \u201cPeople with smiling depression tend to overindulge. They\u2019ll overeat and oversleep as a way to moderate their depression.\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Low self-esteem or low self-worth:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> It\u2019s common for people with depression to struggle with their self-confidence.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Difficulty concentrating:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Smiling depression can make it difficult for people to focus because they\u2019re constantly placing so much effort on appearing happy and like they have their life in order.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Substance abuse:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Someone who\u2019s feeling sad or hopeless could turn to drugs and\/or alcohol as a way of coping with their feelings, leading to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/substance-use\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">substance abuse<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Thoughts of death or suicide:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> In extreme cases, a teen may consider taking their life.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/tests\/depression-test\/\" style=\"background-color:#dc7926\">Take Our Depression Test<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Some of these symptoms of smiling depression are clear and easy to recognize, but others aren\u2019t as easy to spot.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:200}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sparks shared an example, saying, \u201cSomeone with smiling depression may be able to genuinely enjoy their birthday party. They may temporarily feel happy being there. But then, when the party\u2019s over, their mood drops again. Their mood variability is a big part of what keeps their smiling depression hidden.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">However, this isn\u2019t a good coping approach for teens struggling with their emotions. Having a secret depression can even make the problem worse as time goes on.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFor some people, the facade of \u2018I\u2019m doing great\u2019 and \u2018Everything is fine\u2019 is actually part of the problem because their mental health needs go unmet,\u201d Sparks said.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-teens-with-depression-can-appear-happy-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Why Teens With Depression Can Appear Happy<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Talking about the reasons why teens who are depressed use a happy fa\u00e7ade as a coping mechanism, Sparks said, \u201cOne of the first things we have to look at is the context of their emotional development, which is usually the family. Different families have different ideas of what\u2019s healthy when it comes to sharing emotions. In some families, it may be normal to talk about distressing emotions, while other families may discourage, either intentionally or unintentionally, discussions about sadness, hurt, or shame. Some families may go even further and identify any discussion or even an experience of emotion as weakness. This puts a lot of pressure on the child to perform<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> or to always be <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u2018<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">happy<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u2019 which can be a setup for emotional failure.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sparks continued by sharing how some cultures have varying expectations when it comes to mental health. Some talk about this topic, while others sweep their emotions under the rug.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Familial and societal expectations can therefore be two major reasons why some teens who are depressed seem happy. They often feel like they must be OK simply because it\u2019s what\u2019s expected of them.&nbsp;<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">There are a variety of other reasons teens with depression appear to be happy.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-desire-to-fit-in-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">A desire to fit in<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Many teens feel pressure to conform to societal expectations and may feel that admitting to being depressed makes them seem weak or different. As a result, they may put on a happy facade to fit in and avoid being ostracized.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-fear-of-being-a-burden-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">A fear of being a burden<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Teens may be afraid of burdening their friends and family. They may believe that expressing their true feelings will cause others to worry or feel responsible for their well-being. As a result, they hide how they\u2019re really doing, resulting in a secret depression.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-negative-stigma-around-mental-illness-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">A negative stigma around mental illness<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">There\u2019s still a significant stigma surrounding <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/teen-mental-illness-and-treatment\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">mental illness<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, so many teens may be afraid of being judged or discriminated against if they admit to being depressed. This fear may cause them to hide their true feelings and appear happy around others.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-desire-to-protect-their-loved-ones-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">A desire to protect their loved ones<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In some cases, teens with depression may want to shield their loved ones from their struggles because they\u2019re worried their pain will hurt those close to them. As a result, they may use humor or positivity to hide their depression so they can protect those they care about.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-risk-of-suicide-in-smiling-depression-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Risk of Suicide in Smiling Depression<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s important to know there\u2019s a connection between smiling depression and suicide. Individuals with this type of depression can struggle with thoughts of death. They may experience <a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/passive-suicidal-ideation\/\">passive suicidal ideation<\/a>, which involves a desire to die, or active suicidal ideation, which involves planning how to die by suicide. Take any <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/what-is-suicidal-ideation\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">thoughts of suicide<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> seriously, regardless of whether or not your teen appears happy on the outside.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When asked about smiling depression and suicide, Sparks said, \u201cThere is research that shows because of the added emotional tolerance and wider variety of energy in people with smiling depression, they can be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ualr.edu\/counseling\/2018\/09\/18\/smiling-depression-can-make-suicide-hard-to-predict-heres-what-you-can-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">more at risk<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for acts of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/suicide-is-not-the-answer\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">self-harm<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and suicide. Oftentimes, people with typical depression don\u2019t have enough energy to take this step, while people with atypical smiling depression often have more energy and focus and conviction to carry out a suicide attempt.\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-help-with-smiling-depression-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">How To Help With Smiling Depression<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">According to Sparks, \u201cAll of the treatments for regular depression apply in the same way for smiling depression. It\u2019s not a phenomenon in and of itself that\u2019s so different from a major depressive disorder.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you suspect your teen may be struggling with smiling depression, you can take steps to help them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-nbsp-love-and-accept-your-teen-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">1.&nbsp; Love and accept your teen<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While your first instinct may be to talk to your teen about how they\u2019re feeling, Sparks said the most important way to help your child is by simply loving and accepting them.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cIt would be great if your teen was immediately open and vulnerable with their struggles,\u201d Sparks said. \u201cThe reality is, those struggling with depression, and particularly hidden depression, are likely to resist simple requests to &#8216;open up.\u2019 Communicate your commitment and acceptance of them by providing love and empathy during their struggles, even if they don\u2019t open up. Words are often not necessary for showing others how we feel about them.\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This process, known as co-regulation, will set the stage for creating an open and safe space for your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/excessive-talking\/\">teen to talk<\/a> about their feelings and struggles.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-normalize-conversations-about-depression-and-suicidal-ideation\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">2. Normalize conversations about depression and suicidal ideation<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s also important that you normalize conversations about depression and suicidal ideation. Let your teen know through your actions that it\u2019s OK to feel sad or overwhelmed, and that you\u2019re there to support them.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sparks recommended making statements like \u201cI noticed your mood being down more recently, and I\u2019m wondering if you\u2019re feeling depressed?\u201d or \u201cLet me listen.\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He also noted that talking about being depressed may be overwhelming, so, \u201cThe more we can communicate that we as parents have no expectation of happiness, the more we allow our children to feel what they feel and, in turn, share it with us. Your child may still feel depressed after these conversations, but as a parent, wouldn\u2019t you rather know what they\u2019re feeling so you can get them the proper help?\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-seek-treatment-for-smiling-depression-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">3. Seek treatment for smiling depression<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re concerned about your teen&#8217;s mental health, it may be helpful to contact a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can provide smiling depression treatment, helping your teenager work through their feelings and providing them with the tools and strategies they need to address their condition.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-encourage-good-health-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">4. Encourage good health<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Encourage your teen to engage in healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/the-importance-of-what-you-eat\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">eating a healthy diet<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. In fact, l<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">ook for opportunities to promote physical health among the entire family. Take family walks, eat a variety of nutritious food, drink plenty of water, and ensure everyone practices good sleep hygiene to best promote restorative sleep.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cIt won\u2019t be enough to simply ask your teen to do these things,\u201d Sparks said. \u201cIt will likely require the whole family shifting their awareness to reinforce health for everyone. This way, even if your teen can\u2019t or won\u2019t choose these options, at least you\u2019ll be healthier and in a better place to support them.\u201d<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-help-them-develop-connections-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">5. Help them develop connections<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Assist your teen in connecting with others and building a strong support network, which can include friends, family members, and support groups. These people can help your teen feel less alone. They can also offer co-regulation and empathy, and contribute to your child\u2019s sense of self-worth.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To help your teen create, grow, and lean on a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/how-can-i-build-a-support-network\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">good support network<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Sparks recommended asking them:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How are your support systems?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Can the people you have relationships with help you regulate your emotions?<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Do you have relationships that provide a buffer against emotional hurt and pain?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-be-patient-and-understanding\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">6. Be patient and understanding<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s important to be patient and understanding with your teen as they work through their depression. Sparks said to create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing how they\u2019re feeling and don\u2019t hide their struggles. Remember, this is a process, and it may take time for them to improve. Offer your support and encouragement along the way.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-teach-self-care-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">7. Teach self-care<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Teens with depression, including secret depression, need to prioritize self-care and make sure they\u2019re taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental health. Teach them how to meditate and practice mindfulness. Support them as they engage in interests that help them connect with others and build healthy relationships.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-educate-yourself-and-find-support-for-yourself-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">8. Educate yourself and find support for yourself<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It can be helpful to educate yourself about depression and how it can show up differently in different people. This can help you better understand your teen&#8217;s struggles and how to help them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As you support your teen, remember you may also be struggling. You may feel worried, helpless, and sad as you watch your teen deal with their depression. Find support for yourself as well. This can include talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or leaning on friends and family.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-smiling-depression-wrapup-nbsp\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Smiling Depression: Wrapup<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:200,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Smiling depression is essentially a secret depression, as it\u2019s characterized by a person&#8217;s ability to hide how depressed they are behind a facade of happiness. It can be difficult for parents to recognize their teen is struggling with this condition, as they may not exhibit the typical signs and symptoms of depression.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you suspect your teen is struggling with this issue, talk to them about how they&#8217;re feeling. Approach them with patience and understanding. If, after talking to them, you\u2019re worried about their emotional well-being, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/blog\/ask-a-therapist-how-do-i-find-a-good-therapist-for-my-teenager\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">contact a mental health professional<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Taking these steps will allow you to best support your child through their journey to heal from smiling depression.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559738&quot;:180,&quot;335559739&quot;:180}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Embark is the most trusted name in teen and young adult mental health treatment. We\u2019re driven to find the help your family needs. If you\u2019re looking for support, <\/span><\/i><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.embarkbh.com\/contact-embark\/\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">contact us<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/a><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> today<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">!<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find out what smiling depression is, its symptoms, how happiness can mask depression, the suicide risk, and how parents can help.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":27,"featured_media":26890,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[947],"tags":[261,1189,1216,1664,1665,1666,1667,1668,1742,20],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v21.1 (Yoast SEO v22.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Smiling Depression: How Happy Faces Can Mask Depression<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" 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