Why are some people depressed so often? (I don’t mean clinical depression.) I think there’s one reason why people show emotions of sorrow… they want others to notice. If they didn’t want others to know, they’d act as they normally do.

Being depressed would be an example of something not beneficial, until one adds in the others who notice. Showing sadness allows others to notice, so they can comfort the sad person. That’s the real reason, at least on a subconscious level. Even if they say they don’t want others to know, they actually do. The friend that probes despite this shows greater loyalty, making the depressed person happier.

This is a cynical view, but it makes sense. Showing sadness would seem a weakness, simply making them easier prey, and dropping their status on the social ladder. However, since humans are social, those who have their solace comforted are better off, making the physical displays a benefit.