High Functioning Depression

Many individuals with High Functioning Depression go undiagnosed because their symptoms aren’t always easy to spot. In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs, symptoms, and self-assessment to help you understand if you might be dealing with High Functioning Depression.

What is High Functioning Depression?

High Functioning Depression is a subtype of depression where individuals can carry out their daily responsibilities and appear ‘fine’ on the surface, despite struggling with depressive symptoms internally. This hidden nature often makes it challenging for individuals to recognize that they have depression.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Anhedonia – The Loss of Pleasure:

Many individuals with High Functioning Depression don’t necessarily identify with being depressed most of the time. Instead, they often experience anhedonia, which is a loss of pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. This subtle but significant shift can be a key sign of High Functioning Depression.

2. Overwhelming Busyness:

People with High Functioning Depression often keep themselves perpetually busy to distract from emotional pain or past trauma. They might sublimate their feelings by pouring themselves into work or other tasks, trying to avoid confronting negative emotions.

3. Underlying Low Mood:

While they may initially acknowledge feelings of low mood briefly, individuals with High Functioning Depression tend to downplay or even deny their emotional struggles. However, if left untreated and unsupported, these low moods can evolve into a more acknowledged form of depression.

4. Unwillingness to Seek Help:

Many individuals with High Functioning Depression are unwilling to accept help. They might fear being a burden or view seeking assistance as a sign of weakness, contributing to their reluctance to reach out for support.

5. Other Common Symptoms:

• Persistent Sadness: This goes beyond the occasional bad day. If you find yourself feeling persistently sad, empty, or hopeless for most days, regardless of your ability to function in your daily life, it could be a sign of High Functioning Depression. You might even wonder why you’re feeling this way when, on the surface, everything seems to be going well.
• Fatigue: High Functioning Depression often brings with it unrelenting fatigue. It’s not the kind of tiredness that a good night’s sleep can fix. Even when you’ve rested, you still feel physically and mentally drained. This exhaustion can affect your performance at work or your ability to enjoy your hobbies and time with loved ones.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Concentrating on tasks or making decisions can become unexpectedly challenging. You might find it harder to focus at work or even to choose what to have for dinner. This cognitive fog can be frustrating and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
• Irritability: High Functioning Depression can make you more irritable than usual. You might find yourself easily annoyed or agitated by small things that wouldn’t have bothered you in the past. This change in your emotional responses can affect your relationships and work life.
• Changes in Appetite: Pay attention to your eating habits. High Functioning Depression can lead to significant changes in appetite. Some people may lose interest in food, leading to weight loss, while others may turn to food for comfort, resulting in weight gain. These changes are often linked to emotional distress.
• Sleep Disturbances: Your sleep patterns may also be disrupted. You might struggle with insomnia, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Conversely, you might find yourself oversleeping, unable to muster the energy to get out of bed.
• Physical Symptoms: High Functioning Depression can manifest as physical symptoms, such as unexplained headaches, digestive problems, or various aches and pains. These symptoms can sometimes be the body’s way of expressing the emotional distress you’re experiencing.
• Social Withdrawal: One of the telltale signs of High Functioning Depression is social withdrawal. You might begin to isolate yourself from friends and family, even if you were once outgoing and sociable. The effort required to engage in social activities can feel overwhelming.

Recognizing the signs of High Functioning Depression is an important first step. If you suspect you have High Functioning Depression, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A mental health expert can provide a proper diagnosis and guide you towards effective treatment options.

High Functioning Depression is a real and manageable condition. By understanding the signs, symptoms, and taking a proactive approach, you can embark on a journey towards healing and improved mental health. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don’t have to face this alone.