There’s a stark difference between seeming strong and actually being strong.

Often, women who appear tough and unbreakable on the outside are battling deep emotional turmoil within. And while they might put on a brave face, there are subtle signs that give away their true feelings.

In this article, I’ll be shining a light on eight such behaviors that women who are strong externally but emotionally broken within usually exhibit.

We’ll explore how to spot these signs and understand their significance so that we can support these women better. Keep in mind, their strength is real, but it’s not always enough to keep the pain at bay.

1) They’re masters of disguise

Just like a chameleon blends into its surroundings, women who are emotionally broken inside often become experts at masking their true feelings.

They put on a brave face, smile when they’re expected to, and project an image of strength and resilience. It’s their way of protecting themselves from further emotional harm and coping with the daily challenges they face.

Don’t be fooled by the tough exterior. Look a little deeper, and you might see cracks in the facade. Their smiles might not reach their eyes, or their laughter might seem a tad forced.

Remember, it’s not about prying or pushing them to reveal their vulnerabilities. It’s about recognizing these subtle signs and being there for them when they’re ready to let their guard down.

These women aren’t looking for a savior, but a little understanding can go a long way.

2) They are fiercely independent

I’ve noticed that women who carry emotional pain often display a strong sense of independence.

I recall a friend of mine, Sarah. She was always the first one to offer help but the last one to accept it. Her car could be breaking down, or she could be juggling three major projects at work, and she’d still insist on doing everything herself.

This fierce independence was her armor, her way of maintaining control when her inner world was in chaos. It was her attempt to prove to herself and others that despite the emotional turmoil she was experiencing, she was still strong and capable.

Even the strongest among us need help sometimes. If you know a woman like this, offer your support. She may not take it right away, but knowing it’s there can mean the world to her.

3) They seem to be always busy

Interestingly, women dealing with internal emotional struggles often have a packed schedule. From the moment they wake up until they go to bed, their day is filled with tasks and activities.

This constant busyness acts as a distraction from their internal turmoil. It’s a coping mechanism that allows them to avoid confronting their emotional pain.

Pschology suggests that being overly busy can be a form of cognitive avoidance. By filling their time with tasks, these women can sidestep the painful introspection that comes with quiet moments.

So, if you notice a woman who never seems to have a moment to breathe, understand that it might be more than just an overloaded schedule. It could be her way of dealing with emotional distress.

4) They struggle to open up

Many women who are emotionally broken inside find it incredibly hard to open up about their feelings. They often fear being judged, misunderstood, or appearing weak.

So, they choose to bottle up their emotions inside, putting up a front of strength and composure. They might steer clear of deep conversations or change the topic when things get too personal.

It’s not that they don’t want to share; it’s just that opening up can be a daunting task for them.

5) They are sensitive to others’ feelings

Women going through emotional turmoil are often finely attuned to the feelings of those around them. They understand pain, so they can empathize deeply when they see others suffering.

Their own struggle with emotional pain makes them compassionate and sensitive. They will go out of their way to comfort others, often prioritizing other people’s needs over their own.

This selflessness, while admirable, can sometimes amplify their own emotional distress. It’s a delicate balance. While it’s beautiful that they extend such kindness to others, it’s important for them to also take care of their own emotional health.

6) They are perfectionists

Perfectionism is another trait often seen in women who are emotionally broken inside. Everything they do has to be flawless; there’s no room for mistakes or mediocrity.

I remember when I was going through a difficult time, I developed an unhealthy obsession with perfection. I spent hours obsessing over every tiny detail at work, at home, even in my relationships.

This striving for perfection was my way of regaining control when everything else felt chaotic and unpredictable. But in reality, all it did was add more stress and anxiety to my already heavy load.

If you notice a woman constantly striving for perfection, understand that it could be her way of dealing with deeper emotional issues.

7) They avoid close relationships

Women who are emotionally broken inside often keep people at arm’s length. They might have a wide social circle, but very few, if any, close relationships.

The fear of being hurt or let down can make them build walls around themselves. They believe that by keeping emotional distance, they can protect themselves from more pain.

But human connection is essential for emotional healing. If you know a woman like this, be patient. Earning her trust may take time, but your persistent efforts could help her gradually let down her guard and open herself up to the possibility of close relationships.

8) They are resilient

Despite the emotional turmoil they carry within, these women are remarkably resilient. Life might have knocked them down multiple times, but they always find a way to get back up.

Their strength isn’t just an outward show; it’s a testament to their spirit and their will to keep moving forward, no matter how hard things get.

Remember, their resilience isn’t a sign that they don’t need support. Even the strongest among us need a shoulder to lean on sometimes. Be there for them, not as a savior, but as a friend who acknowledges their strength and stands by them in their journey.