The truth is, we never really know what's going on "underneath" with anyone and this horse shit "man up" syndrome that we have in the UK (don't know if it's prevalent any where else) where it's basically forbidden for a man to show any sign of being in touch with emotions is not the way to live. Masking problems will lead to a blow up at a later date.

The only real way is like you said, empathise and show some compassion with each other. Treat others the way you want to be treated.