- [Narrator] They hide behind a mask of happiness.
Perhaps the most practiced habits
amongst those with concealed depression
is constantly wearing a mask of happiness.
They may overcompensate for the depression
by attempting to feign wellbeing.
It is important to remember
that just because you perceive happiness in someone
doesn't always mean that they are as carefree in reality.
Number two, they're a perfectionist.
Are they really hard on themselves?
Oftentimes, people with concealed depression
set really high expectations for themself.
As a result, they may feel internal pressure
to hide any blemishes
and projecting a picture perfect image
of themselves to others.
Because of this, they may have the tendency
to accomplish everything
without needing to pull the curtains back
to reveal the actual effort that they've exhausted
and the scars they've had while doing so.
Number three, they often absorb other people's energy.
Do they find it easy to empathize with others?
People who have highly developed emotional intuition
are prone to absorb other people's energy.
The extent to which they feel emotion
may translate into a deeper understanding
of others and their feelings.
Because of this,
they often embody an enhanced sense of empathy.
Oftentimes just perceiving the sadness of others
is enough to make themselves sad as well.
Number four, they often spend time alone.
Have you noticed that they're really sensitive
to outside stimuli?
Sometimes people with concealed depression
can be hypersensitive to the world
and the environment around them,
as they have a highly-attuned brain.
It can be overwhelming to just live
with a constant stream of thoughts and noise
running through their head,
that you might find them needing time alone
and away from people to recalibrate themselves.
Number five, they're flippant
when asked about their wellbeing.
Are they quick to change the subject
when you ask them how they're doing?
While it's good to reach out
to people you're concerned about,
sometimes those with concealed depression
may continue to deny their conditions in front of you.
Instead, you may notice them
frequently indulging in self-deprecation
or showing little regard for their own health and safety.
Number six, they have a knack for the arts.
People with concealed depression
may find an outlet for their emotions
in the art they design or the music they produce.
Their emotional experience
may help them elevate their craft,
but as healthy as it is
to channel the suffering and affliction they experience
through these creative pursuits,
it's also crucial that they seek help
when they need it as well.
Number seven, there are subtle cries for help.
Have they shown subtle signs of wanting help?
These cries may not be perceptible at first,
but if you pay attention,
you may spot little inconsistencies in their routine.
Perhaps they've started to skip class or school
in a constant basis
or have neglected their much loved hobbies.
Number eight, they understand how to self-remedy.
Those with concealed depression may have grown accustomed
to the responsibility of maintaining their own wellness.
This means they know which activities
can bring them solace and comfort,
or which foods and medications they should intake
to supply them with a chemical boost.
And number nine, they're prone to risky behavior.
We all find ways to cope with stresses of everyday life,
but sometimes those with concealed depression
may turn to escapism or risky activities,
such as gambling or drinking
to avoid confronting and dealing with their emotions.
Meditation, exercise, or an engaging hobby
can often serve as healthy alternatives
to these unhealthy tendencies.
So do you recognize any of these habits
in your friends, family, or acquaintances?
Because those with depression cannot be categorized
by one shared trait or another,
remember to approach each individual case
with an open mind and sensitivity.
Just reaching out and checking in
are two of the most effective actions you can take.
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The references and studies used in this video
are added in the description below.
Thanks so much for watching,
and we'll see you in our next video.