3. They stick to short answers.
Someone who’s secretly unhappy will also try to deflect important questions by giving short answers, as they try to avoid opening up to you. That’s exactly why it’s important to pay attention to how your loved ones behave, and if you see them talking less than they use to, it might be because they’re dealing with something behind closed doors.
According to American Psychological Association, disinterest and apathy are the first signs of depression, so you need to ask yourself the following questions: Is my friend being more quiet than usual? Have they stopped calling or texting you out of a sudden? Do they stick to short answers?
If the answer to these questions is yes, you need to find a way to be there for them and try to make them open up about the problem. Or, if they don’t feel ready to share their struggles with you, seeking professional help is vital.