If it Looks Like a Duck… It’s Not Always a Duck!
Today we talked about masking emotions, or emotional camouflage.
Sometimes people mask to hide their true feelings. We can feel sad, stressed, worried, or angry, all while pretending we are okay.
Some main reasons people mask: Social Acceptance, Coping Mechanisms, Fear of Vulnerability, Cultural Differences, or Fear of Conflict. Masking can be intentional or Unintentional. A lot of people don’t even realize they suppress their emotions!
What is “high functioning” Depression or Anxiety? This means we get “all the things” done, and we typically do them well. On the outside we are happy, successful, popular, and put together. But, once we are alone, the mental health struggles are very heavy. Some people even try to hide their struggles from their family.
The classes today reviewed a few “familiar faces” of celebrities and important figures who struggle with various mental health issues. Just because someone seems well off does not always mean they are well!
Do yourself a favor and quack back! Let someone you trust know if you’re not okay. The more you acknowledge your needs, the better prepared you’ll be to tackle the hard stuff and get better! Get them ducks in a row!
