Unseen Faces of Depression: Your Ultimate Guide to the Many Shades of Blue

13. Substance-Induced Depression

Depression and substance use are often entangled in a toxic cycle. Some people use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate emotional pain, only to find that their mood worsens over time. Substance-induced depression occurs when mood disorders are directly caused by prolonged use—or withdrawal—from substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Symptoms include hopelessness, low motivation, and emotional numbness. Because the cause and effect can be hard to untangle, this type often goes undiagnosed. Effective treatment involves a dual approach: detox or rehab paired with therapy that targets the underlying emotional drivers. Recovery begins when both shadows are brought to light.

14. Masked Depression in Men

Men often experience and express depression differently than women, due in part to societal conditioning. Instead of sadness or withdrawal, many men with depression display irritability, anger, risky behavior, or even workaholism. They may struggle with insomnia or substance use rather than emotional openness. This is sometimes called “masked” depression, because the symptoms don’t align with typical expectations—and that’s why it’s frequently missed. Men are also less likely to seek help, fearing stigma or judgment. Creating space for emotional honesty and vulnerability is essential in uncovering this unseen form of depression. It doesn’t always look sad—it often looks shut down.