Smiles remain one of the most potent tools for connection and well-being.
By Sam Goldstein Ph.D.
Does a smile still hold its magic if hidden behind a mask? For nearly two years, we rarely saw the faces of others. Neurologist Debashish Mridha suggests, “A smile has a magical power; it makes everyone smile back.” But what if no one can see it? In a world of face masks, have we muted the power of a smile, a fundamental human expression?
The Benefits of Smiling
Smiling is touted as a natural stress reliever, aiding heart health, reducing blood pressure, and boosting the immune system by lowering cortisol levels. Whether genuine or forced, smiling stimulates the brain to release endorphins, relieving pain and stress, and serotonin elevates mood. The origins of this phenomenon date back millions of years, as primatologist Signe Preuschoft explains. Smiling likely evolved from a “fear grin” displayed by primates to show submission or harmlessness. Over time, this gesture transformed into a powerful tool for social bonding and emotional expression.
Babies and the First Smile
Even newborns smile, though early grins are often reflexive. Between 6 and 8 weeks, infants develop a “social smile,” intentionally directed at caregivers. Babies are naturally attuned to female voices and faces, and their smiles often prompt a dopamine release in their parents, elevating mood and strengthening bonds. Smiling is not just an emotional gesture but a biological one, activating the same brain regions in infants and adults that respond to happiness.
The Paradox of Smiling Depression
While smiling often conveys joy, it can also mask pain. “Smiling depression” refers to those who appear cheerful while battling inner turmoil. This major depressive disorder, marked by atypical symptoms, often goes unnoticed. Those affected may be high-achieving, outwardly successful individuals who suppress their struggles. This hidden suffering underscores that a smile does not always reflect inner happiness.
The Extremes of Smiling
Can smiling be overemphasized? Some applications, like China’s facial payment technology, use smiles to link identities with digital systems. In a 1972 study, a severely depressed patient was paid to smile as a behavioral intervention. The results showed no need for further hospitalization, suggesting the potential therapeutic value of smiling. Yet, this finding remained obscure, overshadowed by the rise of pharmacological treatments like Prozac years later.
Masking and Its Consequences
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced widespread mask usage, profoundly impacting social interactions. Masks obscure facial expressions, limiting our ability to communicate and connect. Studies suggest that smiling changes our perception of the world and our responses to others, reinforcing the importance of visible expressions. While potentially slowing virus transmission, masking has also been an unintentional experiment in suppressing one of humanity’s most basic social tools.
The impact on children has been particularly significant. Masks hinder their ability to learn social cues, develop empathy, and build emotional resilience. While health concerns are paramount, the long-term consequences on mental health and development must also be considered.
A Call to Action
Mother Theresa famously said, “Peace begins with a smile,” Christie Brinkley described smiles as symbols of “friendship and peace.” Can we foster greater understanding and connection by removing our masks and allowing our smiles to shine? Smiles remain one of the most potent tools for connection and well-being. Whether visible or not, they enrich our lives, improve our health, and foster human connection. So, smile—and let the world smile with you, but make sure they can see it.
Sam Goldstein, Ph.D., is a professor at the University of Utah.
Originally published @ Psychology Today
