Writers 
Not all smiles are happy. Not everybody who laughs is free from pain. Sometimes the smile on one's face can cover up the darkest of struggles. It's just that there's a battle going on that no one knows about behind the pictures, conversations, jokes, and happy demeanor. One of the covert aspects of depression is this one.
Depression is not just a result of a bad day. It can impact an individual's thoughts, emotions, sleep, work, relationships, and future. It can be hard for some to find pleasure in activities they used to enjoy. Some people feel constantly tired, hopeless, empty, isolated or overwhelmed. But for many there are aspects of their lives that go on just fine on the outside.
They go to work. They attend school. They answer messages. They enjoy passing time with their friends and having fun. They photograph and upload them to the internet. They might even motivate others, and do their own motivating in secret.
That is why, we should not judge anyone on the basis of what we see.
A person who states that they are OK, might not actually be OK. Mentally, a person who always makes people laugh might need someone to inquire about how they are doing. A person that appears to be strong might be burdened with something they haven't had the guts to tell.
Sometimes people mask their pain out of fear of being misunderstood. They might feel unappreciated, weak, dramatic, or demanding attention. Some people think they are expected to be 'strong' for their family and friends. This means they are not able to complain and are forced to endure things silently.
It is important for us to develop a culture where individuals can talk about their emotional pain without embarrassment. Listening is a forceful tool. There is a way to open a door for a person who has been walking with pain alone, and that is with a simple question: “How are you really doing?”
Support, however, does not equate to "doing it all ourselves. If the depression is severe, it may need professional assistance and it can be important to encourage the person to seek professional assistance from a trained mental-health professional. Love and support from friends and family can be a wonderful help, but it is not the sole responsibility of those around.
If you're depressed, know that you are not worthless. You're not a burden if you need help. Seeking help is a sign of strength. Progress will not always be apparent and it may take time to heal, but it is a very significant step to take.
If you're aware of someone who's “gone quiet,” “withdrawn,” or “different” recently, don't just brush them aside and think, “He's fine.” Check on them. Listen non-judgmentally/non-lecturing. There are times when people don't have to have a perfect speech, they just need to know someone cares.
There is a story behind every smile that we might not be aware of. There is a world beyond every man that we do not know fully.
So be more compassionate. Look at things past the way of the outward appearance. Let's create a room for the conversation about mental health.
Sometimes the smiley face next to you is asking for help without speaking.
Sometimes the best thing you can do for them is to be present, listen, and remind them: “You're not alone in this.”