High-functioning depression is often given less attention and is regarded with less urgency than more debilitating forms of depression. This isn’t okay and it shouldn’t be considered the ‘norm’. 

Just ask anyone who is considered a high-functioning, depressed individual. 

The symptoms of high-functioning depression are often the same as more severe cases. However, they may feel or appear less intense. This, of course, doesn’t make this form of depression any less real or harmful to the person experiencing it. 

Most people who have high-functioning depression simply “go on” about their days while struggling internally. Their sense of belonging and being understood can feel diminished. Their competence often overshadows their pain. 

Are you suffering this way? You don’t have to go on hurting or feeling ashamed. Fortunately, high-functioning depression treatment is available. Your unique challenges can be addressed with care and support.

What is High-Functioning Depression? 

One of the biggest reasons why people don’t seek out treatment for high-functioning depression is because they may not know how to self-diagnose. 

You might simply think you’re “in a funk” or temporarily sad. Many people think experiencing depression means your life has to be seriously impaired. That isn’t always the case.

Someone who has high-functioning depression may be able to go through their life normally on the surface while internalizing their struggles. 

It’s important to note, too, that there can still be some impairment or issues with daily function. Are there are days when you just can’t get out of bed, or you go to sleep early? Other times you may not be able to perform at work or dedicate yourself to your relationships.

If these feelings, and the problems they cause, are persistent and consistent, you’re dealing with much more than “typical” sadness. 

What Are the Signs?

Again, the signs of high-functioning depression are very similar to other cases. They just tend to be less severe. Some of the most common symptoms of high-functioning depression include: 

• Changes in eating habits
• Insomnia
• Lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of hopelessness

You might not feel these symptoms all of the time or even recognize them to be particularly serious. For example, you might have to force yourself to spend time with friends and family when you would rather be at home. Or, you might find that you’re having trouble staying focused at work or school but you’re not sure why. 

While these symptoms might not keep you from getting through your days, it doesn’t mean they are easy to deal with. Or should be ignored.

In fact, you might start to wonder if there is something wrong with you or questioned whether you really deserve treatment. It’s easy to get confused and wonder why you’re feeling a certain way, especially when those thoughts and feelings are just beginning. That’s exactly why high-functioning depression needs to be addressed clearly, with the right guidance. 

How to Treat High-Functioning Depression

Thankfully, high-functioning depression is manageable. It’s often treated in the same way more severe cases of depression are, with various therapeutic methods.

The most important part about treating for high-functioning depression  is getting the proper diagnosis, in the first place. Depression doesn’t often go away on its own. Getting to the root cause is extremely important. This typically requires the help of a mental health professional. 

If you’ve been feeling any of the symptoms listed above, don’t assume that you’re just going through a “phase” or that you’ll get over it. It’s normal and okay to be sad at times. However, you shouldn’t feel a lasting sense of hopelessness or sadness that goes on for months.  ou should have to constantly have push through tasks and responsibilities with no sense of hope or satisfaction.

With that being said, it’s okay if you don’t recognize the signs and symptoms. If you feel as though you might be experiencing any of them or you have more questions, feel free to contact me. Together, we can address the way you’re feeling.