Masked Depression: Signs, Causes & How to Cope

People often think of depressive disorder as varying only in its severity, such as mild, moderate, or severe depression. However, it also differs in type, as there are multiple forms of depression, each stemming from different causes that can be observed through behaviors and characteristics that emerge with the onset of symptoms. Despite this, a person with depression may appear normal and not show obvious signs of their condition, as some symptoms might seem common to everyone. Sadness is part of the human experience, but when sadness persists and is accompanied by unusual behavioral changes, it may indicate depression. Depression is a very common condition, affecting about one in ten people, with the prevalence of atypical types of depression ranging between 10% and 40%. Among these types is "masked depression," which often begins early in life and can last for extended periods.

Smiling depression, also known as "masked depression," is a psychological disorder accompanied by physical and behavioral symptoms that may appear normal but conceal a state of psychological and physical discomfort, negatively impacting an individual’s daily life in professional, familial, and social aspects. Khalil Al-Badawi defines it as a disorder where the person appears with a smiling and bright face despite their suffering, which can lead to shock among those around them if the individual attempts suicide. In the book Studies on Depression and Aggression, the authors note that masked depression manifests through superficial psychological or physical issues without clear signs of depression. Some of the prominent symptoms include headaches, insomnia, indigestion, stomach pain, and persistent back pain without any clear physical cause.

Masked depression also affects children and adolescents. In children, symptoms can be difficult to identify due to their physical or psychological immaturity and often appear as unexplained physical pains. In adolescents, masked depression may manifest through reckless behaviors or substance abuse, such as drug and alcohol use, as a way to alleviate their feelings of sadness.

As for the treatment of masked depression, it does not differ much from conventional depression treatment. Key methods include psychotherapy, which helps the patient understand and manage their condition through cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, or family therapy. A doctor may also prescribe antidepressant medications depending on the severity of the symptoms. Seeking help when any symptoms appear is important to prevent the condition from worsening.

Today, getting a psychological consultation has become easier than ever. You can download the "Estenarh" app, which features a select group of licensed therapists approved by the Ministry of Health, and receive your consultation with complete confidentiality at a time that suits you.

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