I am destroying myself to make others smile and make their day.

[DeadFromLivingToMuch]

I keep every piece of sadness,anxiety,pain to myself and dont speak.I put up a mask with a smile and others look at me and think "he is happy.he is always happy".I make jokes and do stupid thing to make them smile and laugh.Meanwhile inside i am being eaten by my hidden problems.Anyone can relate or whataver?

[NoirLioness]

I can relate whole heartily. I find that people have a hard time believing us when we look for support because we're "always happy". But inside it can be so exhausting and tiring trying to keep up the charade. Self care is so important to remember to do and not put on the back burner. I'm here if you need a friend. Xoxo

~Lioness

[lostinanxiety]

I can definitely relate to this. No one would ever know how unhappy I am inside because I keep up a fake smile when I'm around other people.

[hypercat54]

Hi I think you do other people a bit of a disservice as I bet there are some perceptive ones who can see through the mask. You haven't got to wear this to save others feelings you know. Ok at work you have to up to a point but not in your social life.

My advice is to start to open up to a couple of family/friends who you think might understand but only a very little in case they don't as you might end up feeling worse.

I also think counselling could help you so seek that. x

[gogogirl]

Yes, I used to do that more often- the good news is that you are aware of it. The "Don't worry, be happy messages that we get in society also contribute to that.

[gogogirl]

I agree with hyper cat- at work if you do not know others that well that can be different- but on the outside I hope you can be yourself. Perhaps look for a support group- also have you identified what is causing this unhappiness- like stress for instance?

[Hidden]

That's so nice of you. You don't always have to be happy. I'm not. Sometimes people really can be but not all the time. I hope you find peace and joy and balance and whatever it is you need. Thanks for sharing. Oh. One more thing, I feel like it's easier said than done but try not to let others' bring you down. Do what you can for yourself. You matter. Let them bring themselves up. It is not your responsibility unless they are your children or something like that. I hope that helps. Good Luck!