What is indicated by 'masked grief'?

Masked grief refers to a situation where an individual experiences grief but does not acknowledge or express it openly. Instead of showing the typical signs of mourning such as sorrow or sadness, the person may exhibit indifference or engage in behaviors that seem unaffected by the loss. This can lead to unrecognized emotional or psychological difficulties stemming from the experience of loss. The individual may carry the underlying pain without openly confronting or dealing with it, which can affect their well-being and mental health over time.

Understanding masked grief is crucial because it highlights how some individuals may not outwardly display their grief, leading others to overlook their need for support. Recognizing that this type of grief exists underscores the importance of being attentive to the emotional states of others, as they might be struggling internally despite a facade of normalcy.