Which term describes postpartum depression that is masked by outward happiness?

• A. Smiling depression.
• B. Seasonal affective disorder.
• C. Hypomania.
• D. Anxiety disorder.

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that depression can be present even when someone looks happy on the outside. In postpartum cases, a new mother may experience significant sadness, exhaustion, and anxiety, yet still present with a bright or cheerful exterior. This mismatched appearance is often described as “smiling depression”—where the outer smile hides inner distress.

Seasonal affective disorder would involve mood changes tied to a season, not the postpartum period. Hypomania involves an abnormally elevated or irritable mood with increased energy, which would look more energetic than depressed. An anxiety disorder centers on persistent worry and fear, not a depressed mood masked by happiness.