Hidden depression consumes a person without realizing what they are going through. What may seem like a minor mood swing or inability to focus on the surface could be eating a person hollow from within. The disorder is also known as “concealed depression,” meaning the person works extra hard to seem like they are their best self, masking the real struggle. Due to this, it is often a condition that is difficult to diagnose. 

Even though it is hidden in nature, getting adequate treatment for the condition is required to lead a fulfilling life. In Houston, therapist depression treatment options are popular for their convenience and range of techniques used to help an individual recognize unhealthy coping mechanisms. But, given how a person learns to mask their true emotions and feelings, it can become challenging to determine if your loved one is struggling with hidden depression. 
 

If you are suspecting a vulnerability, these signs can give the much-needed reassurance that help is needed:

1. Sleeping Too Much or Too Little

Sleep disorders are common in people struggling with depression. In most cases, the sleep patterns often get disturbed in case of depression due to general hyperarousal or psychic anxiety. As a result, the person takes longer than others to fall asleep. 

Depression also makes it challenging for a person to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling rejuvenated and fresh. Due to this, they may often want to lie down for some more time, even if sleep eludes them. 

2. Fatigue That Just Won’t Go Away

Fatigue is when a person constantly feels tired and has no energy to go about their day despite getting 8-9 hours of sleep. They often feel exhausted and want to go back to sleep as soon as possible. It can be due to stress getting stored in the body, causing inflammation, and making it difficult to relax completely. 

Sleep disturbances add to this fatigue, making it nearly impossible for a person with depression to unwind and recharge themselves. Besides, symptoms like loss of appetite, skipping meals, and having a constant desire to indulge in eating sweets can further starve the body of nutritious food. 

3. Indulgence in Drugs and Alcohol

To numb the disheartening and harrowing sadness caused by depression, many people choose to indulge in substance and alcohol abuse. It initially starts as a means to manage the weight of grief but later takes the shape of a coping mechanism. 

As most substances alter brain chemistry, it becomes easier for a person with depression to suppress what they have been feeling and instead enjoy the fleeting feelings. Substances like opioids are also known for inducing a potent butterfly effect, making it a popular choice amongst people who want to experience uninterrupted joy. 

4. Negative Self-Talk

We all have inner dialogues with ourselves, and in the case of depression, these inner dialogues are often discouraging and demotivating and often make a person feel less valuable in their own eyes. The negative self-talk also makes a person endure poor treatment from others as they believe they are not worthy of love, proper treatment, or care. Due to this, many people in depression also end up overstaying in a toxic and abusive relationship. 

5. Losing Interest in Hobbies

A person with depression often ends up feeling like they are not worthy of enjoying life and that they are not good enough. As a result, the individual tends to stop engaging in activities that once gave them feelings of accomplishment and reward. It is also possible that your loved one may disengage from social groups and isolate themselves. 

6. Weight Fluctuations

Depression often suppresses appetite, resulting in the person experiencing heavy weight loss. In some cases, the person may choose to use food as a means to escape from the reality of their situation. Due to this, they may engage in excessive eating habits without exercising. These weight fluctuations are sudden and can stress the body. 

7. Seeking Help Only To Withdraw

It is common for a person struggling with depression to seek help, quoting their struggles in moments of vulnerability, only to retract later when help or support is being made available. This often is due to their belief that they are not worthy of being loved. Another factor that worth’s considering in this aspect is not realizing how grave the situation may be. The constant cycle of negative self-talk makes them believe that no one will listen to them and everyone will think they are lying instead of helping them out. That’s why even when help is being offered, a person with hidden depression will choose not to seek it. 

Bottomline

Hidden depression has the power to mask itself behind forced smiles and the act of pretending to enjoy little moments in life while, in reality, it wreaks havoc. If you or a loved one seems to often complain about sleep disturbances or suddenly seems to be withdrawing from social interactions, checking on them as well as keeping a close eye to identify potential signs of depression can be life-saving. Remember, recovery is possible, and ample treatment options exist to start your healing journey. However, taking the first step to recognize the problem genuinely and seeking help without fear is essential.