401: Perfectly Hidden Depression with Dr. Margaret Rutherford

A close friend lost her husband tragically and suddenly, but she was back in the office just two weeks later. She shed a few tears that first month, but mostly, it was Beth as usual. She didn’t fall behind on any projects or ask for help. “Beth is so strong. I think she can handle just about anything,” they said. Except they were wrong, and so was I. Beth was mourning privately for months, and then deeply depressed for years following the accident. She’d kept it hidden. Hidden depression is not just common, it’s applauded; and I’m as guilty of this as anyone. On this week’s podcast, you’ll meet a clinical psychologist whose recent work focuses on this growing mental health problem hidden from plain sight. Listen & Learn How the “smile or die” positive attitude leads many of use to push down and cover up deep pain and emotions  The difference between classic, clinical depression and the hidden type  The personal and societal fallout that come from wearing an emotional mask for years or even a lifetime How the opposite of depression is engagement or connection - no happiness  Links & Resources Perfectly Hidden Depression Book Site Dr. Rutherford’s Site Smile or Die ABOUT OUR GUEST Margaret is a clinical psychologist with over 27 years experience. She’s also a writer and podcaster (SelfWork). She has a new book called, Perfectly Hidden Depression: How to Break Free from the Perfectionism that Masks Your Depression. She has written for HuffPost, The Mighty, Psych Central, The Gottman Blog, Psychologies, StigmaFighters, The Good Men Project, and This Is My Brave.  Nutritional Tip of the Week: Moringa Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected]  Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes