When Depression Wears a Smile Sis, the holidays are here — and if you’re honest, you might already feel the weight. Depression doesn’t always look like tears. Sometimes it’s showing up to dinner, laughing at jokes, and going home feeling hollow. It’s performing “I’m fine” when your soul is whispering, “I’m not.” In this week’s circle, we’re naming that truth — and letting it breathe. You don’t have to be “the strong one” here. You just have to be real. 💭 Reflection Prompt: Take a few minutes to journal or share in the comments: 1. When did you first learn to hide your pain during the holidays? 2. What would it feel like this year to not perform — just to be? 3. What’s one small way you could give yourself permission to rest? 🦋 Mini Activity — “Unmask Your Moment” Grab your journal or coloring page. Draw or write two sides: - The Mask — what the world sees. - The Truth — what your heart really feels. Color them, decorate them, or just sit with them. Then write one sentence that bridges the two, starting with: “This year, I’m choosing to…” You can share your sentence below or keep it private — either way, it’s a promise to yourself. ☕ Closing Note: Remember: the season isn’t the problem — the pressure is. You deserve softness, even now. We’re walking through this together, one gentle truth at a time. 🌪️ When Depression Wears a Smile “You don’t have to fake joy to deserve it.” Include a soft background — maybe pale pink or tan — with a faint butterfly or coffee steam design flowing across the page. 🪞 Section 1: The Mask (Left side) 💬 What the world sees Prompt lines: - “I’m fine, just busy.” - “I can handle it.” - “I don’t want to ruin the mood.” 👉 Write or draw what your “holiday mask” looks like — the version of you that smiles through the ache. Leave open space or a face outline they can color in. 💔 Section 2: The Truth (Right side) 💭 What your heart really feels Prompt lines: - “I’m tired of pretending.” - “I just want peace.” - “I miss who I used to be.”

Let’s start the week with a gentle check-in. The holidays can bring up a lot — emotions, memories, and even loneliness. This space is your safe place to pause and check in with yourself and each other. 🌤️ How are you feeling this morning? - Use 1 word, 1 sentence, or even a GIF. - You don’t have to explain — just name it, and let it be seen. 🌱 Prompt: “What’s one small, kind thing you can do for yourself this week?” 💬 Drop your response below. Remember: No judgment. Just love. 💕