If you were raised to believe that expressing struggle is a sign of weakness, or if emotional honesty or transparency wasn't safe in your family or culture, then you may have protected yourself by creating a highly successful, perfect-looking life. The problem? What began as protection is now its own prison. You're secretly filled with memories that hold self-criticism and shame while you also stand guard, allowing no one to come close to guessing your inner struggles. You recognize something is wrong, but you're not sure what exactly—only that you feel trapped and alone. If this sounds like you, you may identify with perfectly hidden depression (PHD).

With this evidence-based, stand-alone workbook, you'll learn to gently challenge the ten traits that act to camouflage your inner depression, release feelings of shame, overcome the need to rigidly control your emotions, and cultivate true self-acceptance. You'll also find tangible tips for quieting that critical and rule-bound inner voice, and learn powerful, present-day strategies for coping with difficult feelings. Perhaps just as importantly, you'll discover that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a reflection of your strong determination to heal.

This workbook will help you: understand what created the need for your perfectionism; identify destructive beliefs and challenge their usefulness in the present; begin to express and honor the entire range of your feelings; and build meaningful connections.

If you're ready to stop hiding and start healing, this hands-on workbook will guide you—every imperfect step of the way.