Red flags that could mean someone has 'smiling depression'

Mental health professionals are using their expertise to raise awareness of dysthymia, a condition more commonly referred to as 'smiling depression'.

Though not officially listed in the diagnostic manual for mental disorders, it is said to be on the rise, especially in teenagers and young adults.

The condition is referred to as 'high-functioning depression' due to the patient's ability to appear happy and healthy. In many cases, these sufferers have jobs, friends, and even romantic partners, and as such, appear to be living a conventionally pleasant life.

Behind the scenes, however, they're enduring an inner battle with themselves, and much like clinical depression, if left unaddressed or untreated, the 'smiling' variation could slowly lead to more heartbreaking consequences.

What are some indicators of 'smiling depression'?

According to staff at the Liven app - a programme that aims to reframe inner dialogues for those suffering, as well as boost their self-image - the first 'red flag' to keep an eye out for is waking up tired.

'Smiling depression' patients are often good at hiding their true struggles (Getty Stock Image)

A sugar binge is also said to be common in individuals suffering in silence, with many turning to certain food groups for escapism.

Unsurprisingly, in third is procrastination, with experts saying depression sufferers often look for any means necessary to keep them distracted.

A number of these individuals will also isolate themselves from the people around them, either purposefully, hoping not to burden others with their own woes, or inadvertently, feeling they can't voice their issues out loud.

This can also trigger a secondary side effect - poor time management. Feeling out of touch with friendships and familial relations can cause patients to fall behind with timings.

Experts at Liven also say that 'smiling depression' sufferers are prone to feeling guilty whilst resting, or taking some time to themselves, but equally, spend their busy time failing to get much done.

As such, many of these people often struggle to keep their homes tidy and well-kept, and in some cases, this inability to feel productive extends to their work life, affecting concentration.

Many 'smiling depression' sufferers will battle fatigue behind the scenes (Getty Stock Images)

This vicious cycle can be hard to break for individuals suffering from mental health issues, with many simply lacking the motivation to reach out for help, or to take active steps to change their lives. And for many, when they do finally make an effort to make health changes, they give up the second they fall short, believing they've already failed.

Anything else?

Experts at WebMD also cite persistent sadness, anxiety, or emptiness as symptoms of 'smiling depression', as well as irritability or restlessness, and the feeling of a lack of self-worth.

Many sufferers also lose interest in things that previously made them happy, including hobbies and interests, like sports, music or even food.

As mentioned, 'smiling depression' can also steal a person's appetite, or increase it as a means of coping, leading to unintentional weight gain or weight loss. This anxiety can also affect a person's digestive system, often causing cramps and pains in this area.

Diagnosing 'smiling depression'

Many sufferers cut themselves off from their friends (Getty Stock Image)

As we say, while not documented in the official mental health manual, 'high-functioning depression' is still something that individuals should bring up during a conversation with their doctor.

They could then be referred to a specialist in this area, like a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who'll conduct further tests - likely blood work and a physical examination - and above anything, they'll listen.

The patient will most likely be asked questions about their thoughts, feelings, habits, behaviours and more long-term hopes. After that, a mental health professional might find it appropriate to issue a diagnosis.

Treatment of 'smiling depression'

If the medic believes it necessary, they might prescribe treatment for 'smiling depression', the most common type being talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy.

This could include cognitive behavioural therapy, where the root cause of the problem is addressed, as the therapist attempts to shift the patient's mindset to become more rational.

Talk therapy is often advised for those suffering 'smiling depression' (Getty Stock Image)

Medications are also available for prescription, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Mental health professions will also likely recommend some self-help - whether that be encouraging you to become more active, like taking up a sport or walking for 30 minutes every morning, prescribing you a healthy meal plan, or advising you to cut out alcohol.

If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.