Mental health professionals are leveraging their expertise to increase awareness of dysthymia, more commonly known as 'smiling depression'.

Although not officially recognized in the diagnostic manual for mental disorders, this condition is reportedly on the rise, particularly among teenagers and young adults.

Often termed 'high-functioning depression', this condition describes individuals who manage to appear happy and healthy on the outside. Many of these individuals hold jobs, maintain friendships, and even have romantic partners, creating the illusion of a conventionally enjoyable life.

However, beneath this facade, they face an internal struggle, and similar to clinical depression, if not addressed or treated, 'smiling' depression can lead to severe consequences over time.

What are some indicators of 'smiling depression'?

According to the team at the Liven app, which aims to help sufferers reframe their inner dialogues and enhance their self-image, a primary 'red flag' is waking up feeling exhausted.

'Smiling depression' patients are often skilled at concealing their true struggles (Getty Stock Image)

A tendency to binge on sugar is also common among those suffering silently, as they often turn to specific food groups for solace.

Unsurprisingly, procrastination ranks high, with experts noting that depression sufferers frequently seek out distractions.

Many of these individuals also isolate themselves from others, either intentionally to avoid burdening them with their troubles or unintentionally because they feel unable to express their issues openly.

This isolation can lead to a secondary effect—poor time management. Feeling disconnected from friends and family can cause individuals to fall behind on commitments.

Experts at Liven also point out that 'smiling depression' sufferers often feel guilty when resting or taking time for themselves, yet during busy periods, they struggle to accomplish much.

Consequently, these individuals often have difficulty maintaining a tidy and organized home, and this lack of productivity can extend to their professional lives, affecting their concentration.

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

Breaking this vicious cycle can be challenging for those with mental health issues, as many lack the motivation to seek help or make active changes in their lives. For some, when they do attempt to improve their health, they give up at the first setback, feeling as though they've already failed.

Anything else?

Experts at WebMD also mention persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness as symptoms of 'smiling depression', along with irritability, restlessness, and a sense of worthlessness.

Sufferers often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as hobbies and interests, like sports, music, or even food.

As noted, 'smiling depression' can also affect a person's appetite, either reducing it or increasing it as a coping mechanism, leading to unintentional weight changes. This anxiety may also disrupt the digestive system, causing cramps and pains.

Diagnosing 'smiling depression'

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

Although not documented in the official mental health manual, 'high-functioning depression' is still an issue that individuals should discuss with their doctor.

They may then be referred to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, for further tests—likely including blood work and a physical exam—and importantly, to listen.

The patient will likely be asked about their thoughts, feelings, habits, behaviours, and long-term aspirations. Following this, a mental health professional might determine an appropriate diagnosis.

Treatment of 'smiling depression'

If deemed necessary, treatment may be prescribed for 'smiling depression', with talk therapy, or psychotherapy, being the most common.

This might involve cognitive behavioural therapy, which addresses the root cause of the problem, aiming to shift the patient's mindset towards a more rational perspective.

Talk therapy is often recommended for those experiencing 'smiling depression' (Getty Stock Image)

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

Mental health professionals might also suggest self-help strategies, such as encouraging increased physical activity, like taking up a sport or walking for 30 minutes each morning, providing a healthy meal plan, or advising against alcohol consumption.

If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is available to support you. They operate from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58, and they also offer a webchat service if you're uncomfortable speaking on the phone.