10/10/2025
Mental health may be universal, but it is also deeply unique. For some it presents as a dark, sombre mood, but for many it is kept inside, masked by a smiling face and productive behaviour which hide a deep yearning not to burden anyone with the demons deep inside.
There can be a shame in sharing too much, especially when on paper your life is good. A sense that by highlighting your pain, you are somehow diminishing that of those who endure worse. Instead comes an urge to laugh a bit louder to prove that you know you have it good. Prove it to others, but also yourself.
Circumstance, race, sexuality, gender, geography, wealth, physical health, and ability… none of this determines whether someone will face mental ill health, nor whether they will conquer it.
It is not just the outwardly vulnerable we need to be looking out for, or whose struggles deserve to be heard. Because functioning depression can present in anyone.
The cheerful friend who never complains.
The mum who does it all, with a smile on her face.
The dad who always makes you laugh with his lame jokes.
The prodigy who is at the top of their game and going places.
The teacher who gets voted the students favourite every year.
The happy-go-lucky kid who is everyone’s friend.
The shy customer who never causes a fuss.
The stoic mate who insists “she’ll be right”
The influencer snapping pics on a gorgeous holiday.
The world renowned dancer who makes everyone smile.
The duchess who is surrounded by expensive things.
The comedian whose movies were the funniest of all time.
The musician who just rocked the biggest stadium.
The unflappable person who is everyone’s rock.
ANYONE!
If you think you may be experiencing depression or another mental health problem, please contact your family doctor