Mind

Smiling Depression Is On The Rise

By Roni DeLuz RN, ND, Ph.D

It is estimated that 250 million people worldwide have depression. This number is increasing as we face this pandemic of Coronavirus.

It is even more difficult to diagnose people with “smiling depression.” “Smiling depression” is defined as a person who gets up every day with a smile on their face, yet they are truly suffering from depression on the inside. This person is good at hiding the sadness, pain, anguish and fears. People suffering from “smiling depression” want to scream out loud, or cry out hysterically, but instead, they hold it all in.

This type of depression is different from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived emotional responses. This depression is long-lasting with mild to moderate intensity. Depression may become a significant health risk when left unchecked for long periods. It can cause great suffering, and at its worst, depression can cause suicide.

How is it that we miss the signs of depression?

According to research, people are clinically depressed if they have five or more depressive symptoms for at least a period of two weeks, almost all day, nearly every day such as feelings of sadness, loneliness, despair, low energy, low libido, changes in sleep patterns, over- or under-eating, low self-esteem, and lack of interest in things that used to bring pleasure. These people have high-level jobs and are high profile. The diagnosis is challenging to make because of the lack of trained health-care providers, social stigma related to mental disorders, and inaccurate care assessment. People of all income levels get depressed but not accurately diagnosed which has a huge impact on our health care system.

Talk therapy is on the rise?

Many studies support the thought that “talk therapy” is often a strong treatment for depression. There are different types of “talk therapy.”

Cognitive-behavioral therapy specializes in how thoughts and behaviors contribute to depression. A therapist will assist the patient in learning ways to react to things and challenge preconceptions. A patient and therapist might come up with goals.

Interpersonal therapy focuses on how relationships with others play a task in depression. It focuses on practical issues. The patient will find out how to identify unhealthy behaviors and alter them.

Psycho-dynamic therapy is more traditional. A patient and therapist will explore behavior patterns and motives that a patient may not remember such as childhood traumas, which may contribute to depression.

Essential oils and herbs to help fight depression?

There are natural remedies for “smiling depression,” and many people are unaware that essential oils can help. Natural supplements can provide an unexpected “boost” for people whose depression is persistently overcoming them. Keep in mind that people will respond differently to depression protocols. Some will need prescription medication. However, natural herbs have proven to help. The proper use of treatments in conjunction with herbs, essential oils and the right therapeutic team can create a radical recovery.

Ylang-ylang has outstanding benefits for helping fight depression and negative emotions related to depression. Inhaling ylang-ylang can have immediate, positive effects on your mood and act as a mild remedy for depression. Research shows it can help prevent negative emotions like anger, low self-esteem, and even jealousy! You can also try diffusing the oil in your home or massaging it into your skin.

The floral yet earthy scent of lavender oil is valued for its calming effects. Research suggests that lavender aromatherapy may relieve anxiety, decrease stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation.

5-HTP works by increasing the brain’s serotonin levels. Serotonin also affects moods, such as anxiety, stress and feelings of hopelessness. Several studies exist in favor of 5-HTP and its many effects on mild depression. Research indicates that 5-HTP might be adequate solely in treating mild depression.

Always consult your health practitioner before taking any medication. For more information visit www.Drronideluz.com.

14 Comment

Join the discussion and tell us your opinion.

  1. This is me..I know it , knew it, asked for help..the antidepressants help some..but not much..so i continue to smile and make it one day at a time …smiles

  2. Very true for most of us. Been wondering why the mood swings, but will get on quick with the supplements and increase my aerobics hours. Thank you Steve Harvey. My name is Gift from Nigeria. I am a single mum and huge fan. You made it to the top with all that you’ve been through, I will too.😊🌏

  3. Struggling people historically have existed with a smile on their faces through ongoing tough times. The line about high profile positions are affected. Makes me chuckle. Welcome to my world.

  4. I have chronic depression and have been treating it my entire adult life.

  5. I been suffering of depression I feel tired and I sleep a lot and I cry without good reason

  6. Merci beaucoup

  7. Bon travail

  8. Merci beaucoup pour le texte, et je ferai de mon mieux pour pourvoir aider les autres qui souffre de ce type de dépression.

  9. A lot of people live with this depression cos they are mothers,employees and employers and can’t afford not to smile even when they are really really sad and really lonely

  10. I had high functioning depression for decades and didn’t know it. Life was just harder for me than others..I thought I was broken. I took the Adult Childhood Experiences quiz and then the Burns Depression Checklist and discovered my problem. I found relief thru daily Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, the book “Feeling Good” by Dr. Burns, then with counseling reconciled with my wife of 30 years. Daily life is the best it’s ever been for going on a year now. Hope my journey helps you.

  11. this is me. never heard of this title smiling depression. i was diagnosed with Major Depression many years ago.

  12. […] Everyone deals with bouts of anxiety now and then. It’s one of the most common mental health issues, affecting more than 40 million adults in the U.S. But for some people, the feeling of worry and uneasiness is constant—so much so that it can sometimes lead to panic attacks. […]

  13. I am a 71-year-old mother who has two daughters and four grandchildren. I’ve had depression most of my life and the older I get the worse it gets of course. But I found watching The Steve Harvey Show brightens my day and I just want to thank you Steve you’re a funny man.

  14. Smiling depression describes my state of mind perfectly…and I’ve known it for quite some time. I take meds, see therapists, etc., but nothing seems to have worked I’ve had really bad down periods (I think that is a nice way to say it.) and always recover and explain myself b/c I am/have been very good at hiding it. Now it is time to retire, and I have been putting it off b/c I know once I do, there won’t be much time left. Articles like this one help…and unfortunately it serves as a reminder of who and what I am.

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