It’s not always easy to see when someone is struggling.
People often put on a brave face and mask their true feelings, making it hard for anyone else to figure out what they’re really going through. That being said, there are usually some quieter indicators that someone may be facing more than they’re sharing with other people. If you’re paying attention, you might notice these small but telling signs that someone is silently going through a tough time.
1. They withdraw from social interactions.
While everyone needs alone time, someone who’s struggling may begin to isolate themselves more than usual. They may cancel plans, avoid group gatherings, or retreat into their own space, even when invited to join in. The withdrawal is often a sign that they’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t have the energy for socialising.
2. Their sleep patterns change.
Changes in sleep are a common symptom of stress or emotional struggles. Someone who is struggling might either sleep excessively as a way to escape their thoughts, or they might have trouble falling asleep due to anxiety or racing thoughts. If you notice someone becoming more tired or restless, it could be a sign they’re not okay.
3. They seem more irritable or moody.
When people are dealing with inner turmoil, it often comes out as irritability or mood swings. If someone who is usually calm and composed suddenly snaps or seems easily frustrated, it could be a sign they’re struggling to keep it together on the inside.
4. They’re not talking as much about their personal life.
People who are struggling may stop sharing details about their life or personal experiences. That might mean avoiding conversations about how they’re doing or shutting down when asked. The more they pull back, the more likely it is they’re keeping things bottled up.
5. They seem distracted or absent-minded.
When someone is preoccupied with emotional or mental distress, it can show in their focus. You might notice them forgetting things, missing deadlines, or seeming lost in thought. Their mind may be elsewhere, and they may not even realise how much they’re struggling to concentrate.
6. They put on a smile, but it doesn’t reach their eyes.
A fake smile is one of the most subtle ways people hide their struggles. While they may seem happy on the surface, their eyes may tell a different story. A forced smile can be a sign they’re trying to mask their pain, even if their heart isn’t in it.
7. They’re more critical of themselves than usual.
When someone is struggling, their inner critic often becomes louder. They may start to belittle themselves more than usual, pointing out flaws or mistakes, even over things that seem insignificant. Such harsh self-criticism is often a sign that they’re dealing with deeper emotional or mental struggles.
8. They’re neglecting their physical appearance.
Neglecting personal hygiene or appearance can be a sign that someone is struggling emotionally. While not always the case, a lack of interest in how they look may indicate that they’re feeling apathetic or overwhelmed by everything happening in their life.
9. They keep saying “I’m fine” even when it’s clear they’re not.
Sometimes, people will say they’re fine as a way to deflect concern or avoid talking about their struggles. If someone repeatedly brushes off their feelings with a quick “I’m fine” but their body language or tone suggests otherwise, it’s a red flag that they may not be okay.
10. They avoid discussing the future.
Someone who is struggling may become reluctant to talk about their plans or dreams for the future. They might avoid conversations about upcoming events, or even hesitate to make long-term plans. It can be an indication that they’re feeling stuck or uncertain about what’s to come.
11. They’re having trouble with their usual routine.
Struggling people often have a harder time sticking to their usual routine. It could mean they’re neglecting chores, missing work, or falling behind in activities they typically enjoy. If their usual habits are slipping, it could be a sign that they’re overwhelmed by something they’re not sharing.
12. They seem overly agreeable or people-pleasing.
People who are struggling might become more focused on pleasing people than on their own needs. They may go out of their way to accommodate other people, even if it means neglecting themselves. The desire to please everyone else could be an attempt to avoid conflict or to distract from their own inner turmoil.
13. They’re showing signs of physical stress.
Stress doesn’t just affect the mind; it can also show up physically. You might notice someone who is struggling experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, or even frequent colds. These signs often accompany prolonged emotional distress or anxiety.
