Yes, people can often hide anxiety from others, especially in social situations.
How People Hide Anxiety
- Social Masking: People with anxiety may learn to put on a "mask" in social situations, appearing confident and outgoing while feeling anxious inside.
- Physical Cues: They might suppress physical symptoms like trembling hands or a racing heart, choosing to appear calm.
- Avoidance: Some people avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, making it seem like they are not anxious.
- Cognitive Reframing: They might rationalize their anxiety, telling themselves that they are not really anxious or that it is not a big deal.
Recognizing Hidden Anxiety
While people can successfully hide anxiety for a while, it's important to remember that:
- Body Language: Subtle cues, like fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or a tense posture, can indicate anxiety.
- Verbal Cues: Hesitation, stuttering, or speaking in a high-pitched voice can be signs of anxiety.
- Changes in Behavior: Increased withdrawal from social situations, changes in eating or sleeping habits, or an increase in substance use could also be indicators.
Importance of Support
If you suspect that someone is hiding anxiety, it's important to offer support and encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.
