Unperceived and unacknowledged psychological suffering is an invisible straitjacket that gradually restricts movements, makes joys scarcer, and colors less vibrant...
In the initial stages, the individual fights against this imprisonment, but when no one comes to their aid, they slowly give up until they eventually stop struggling.
It usually sneaks in quietly and only grows when unnoticed or unvalidated.
Babies suffer, children suffer, teenagers suffer, and adults do too! Who determines if someone else's suffering is justifiable or reasonable? Nobody! Each person knows their own pain. The more the environment is able to acknowledge and support that pain, the faster it passes. Denying, diminishing, ignoring, or covering it up does not resolve it.
Contrary to what many think, a baby's pain is not expressed only through crying. That's the most superficial level. They primarily express it through bodily disturbances: appetite, sleep, and attention disorders; excessive restlessness and dermatitis are the most common expressions.
Adult suffering doesn't manifest only in sadness... it can manifest as constant irritability or even hiding behind excessive humor.
Teenagers who can't cope with their own suffering may withdraw, expose themselves too much, or engage in self-harm.
In summary, pain can manifest in infinite ways. Shielding children from the inherent frustrations of life doesn't alleviate suffering. In fact, it often causes it by not teaching them lovingly how to cope.
A constantly vigilant eye on those around you is the primary tool needed to notice when someone needs help. No request should be ignored or dismissed as a mere cry for attention. If someone says they're thinking about taking their own life, stop everything and listen!
For those in need of this help: know that there will always be someone who cares, even if they are not yet within your sight.