17 Clues That Someone Smiling on the Outside Might Be Hurting Inside
Sometimes, the people who seem the happiest on the outside are the ones hiding the deepest struggles. They may project positivity, laughter, and strength, yet quietly carry wounds beneath the surface.
This kind of hidden pain often goes unnoticed, as these individuals are experts at masking their emotions to avoid burdening others. Here are 17 behaviors that can reveal the hidden sadness behind a seemingly happy exterior.
Constantly Making Others Laugh
People who are hurting often deflect their own pain by becoming the comedian. Making others laugh is a way to feel needed and avoid personal vulnerability.
Overloading Their Schedule
A packed schedule can keep troubling thoughts at bay. Those who are struggling may fill every hour to avoid moments of quiet reflection, where pain might surface.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Offering Help to Everyone
People who struggle inside may go out of their way to help others, feeling fulfilled by providing support while never expecting the same in return.
Avoiding Serious Conversations
They might change the subject or steer away from deep conversations, fearing that talking openly could expose their hidden pain to others.
Overly Positive Attitude
Maintaining a constant positive attitude, even in difficult times, can be a way to shield others from their true feelings, hiding sadness behind a bright smile.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Always Saying They’re “Fine”
The word “fine” often becomes their go-to response to avoid questions. It’s a way to keep people at arm’s length, as they’re not ready to reveal the truth.
Deflecting Attention
Those who are hurting may be masters of deflection, quickly shifting focus back to others whenever the conversation gets too personal.
Avoiding Time Alone
Many with hidden pain prefer not to be alone with their thoughts. Constant company or distractions prevent them from facing their true feelings.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Chasing Perfection
Perfectionism can be a shield. By focusing on appearing perfect, they avoid addressing the imperfections and pain they feel within.
Overly Agreeable
People struggling beneath the surface often say “yes” to everything. They avoid conflict at all costs, fearing any hint of rejection or judgment.
Throwing Themselves into Hobbies
Whether it’s fitness, cooking, or a new skill, they might dive into hobbies as an escape, filling the void left by unaddressed emotions.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Making Jokes About Themselves
Self-deprecating humor can be a cry for help disguised as a joke. They use humor to lessen their pain, hoping others won’t notice the truth behind it.
Being the “Strong” Friend
These individuals take on the role of the strong, reliable friend who doesn’t need help. Secretly, they may wish someone would notice and support them.
Frequent Social Media Posting
Projecting a picture-perfect life online can be a way to convince themselves—and others—that everything is fine, masking the reality within.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Going Out of Their Way to Please Others
People hiding pain often prioritize others’ happiness to avoid dealing with their own struggles. Pleasing others can serve as a temporary distraction.
Refusing to Open Up
When asked about themselves, they keep things vague or avoid sharing details, fearing vulnerability and keeping a barrier around their emotions.
Downplaying Personal Successes
They might downplay achievements or avoid the spotlight, uncomfortable with attention that could prompt others to dig deeper into their personal lives.
More from IEPMommy
- Younger Workers Refuse to Follow These 15 Outdated Office Rules
- 16 Reasons Employers Don’t Want to Hire Gen X Candidates Anymore
- The Harsh Realities Boomers Lived That Millennials Didn’t Have to Face
- These 21 Job Skills Are Now Completely Useless in Today’s Workforce
- 19 Old-Fashioned Beliefs That Boomers Cling to but Are Harmful Today
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
