Neal O'Carroll | IntoYourHead dot ie

Smile mask syndrome is a psychological disorder in which individuals suffer from depression and physical issues due to prolonged, forced smiling. This condition can lead to significant strain on the mouth and may result in an inability to stop smiling, even during distressing or upsetting moments. The concept was first introduced by Professor Makoto Natsume, who observed during counseling sessions that many students had faked their smiles to such an extent that they were unaware they were smiling even while discussing stressful experiences. Natsume links this phenomenon to the emphasis on smiling in the Japanese service industry, particularly among young women.