When we think of depression, many of us picture someone who is visibly struggling- unable to get out of bed, missing work, or showing obvious signs of distress. But high-functioning depression can be a lot harder to spot. People with high-functioning depression often keep up with their daily responsibilities and appear to be doing just fine. Unfortunately, they’re fighting a persistent battle with feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness.
What is High-Functioning Depression?
High-functioning depression, sometimes called dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a type of depression that isn’t as visibly debilitating but is still very real and very painful. People with high-functioning depression can go to work, take care of their families, and even appear to be social and active. However, they often do this while feeling a deep, underlying sadness that doesn’t go away.
Here are some signs that someone might be dealing with high-functioning depression:
Constant Fatigue: Even with a full night’s sleep, you might feel tired all the time. This constant fatigue can make everything feel like a chore.
Difficulty Concentrating: You may find it hard to focus or feel like your mind is in a fog. Simple tasks can take longer than usual because it’s tough to stay on track.
Alcohol/Substance Abuse: Turning to drugs and alcohol can sometimes be a coping mechanism for individuals with high-functioning depression, as they may turn to alcohol or drugs to numb persistent feelings of sadness and manage their emotional pain.
Irritability: Small things might set you off, leading to irritability and frustration that can strain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
Social Withdrawal: You might find yourself withdrawing from social activities, making excuses to avoid gatherings, or feeling disconnected even when you’re with others.
Persistent Sadness: A low mood that lingers and doesn’t seem to have a clear cause can be a hallmark of high-functioning depression. You might not experience severe bouts of crying, but there’s a constant sense of sadness or emptiness.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a successful professional, always on top of their game at work, meeting deadlines, and even getting promotions. To everyone else, they seem to be thriving. But behind the scenes, they struggle to get out of bed each morning, feeling an overwhelming sense of fatigue and lack of motivation. They may put on a happy face, but feel a deep sense of sadness they can’t shake once they’re alone.
Or think about a dedicated parent who manages to take care of their children, keeps the house in order, and is active in school activities. They might seem like they have it all together, but internally, they’re constantly battling feelings of worthlessness and find it hard to enjoy the things they used to love.
Seeking Help is Crucial
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and there is help available. High-functioning depression can be tricky. It’s easy to convince yourself that things aren’t that bad or that you should be able to handle it on your own. But mental health struggles are real and deserve attention and care.
Reaching out for support from a mental health professional can make a huge difference. Therapists and psychiatrists are trained to help you navigate these feelings and develop strategies to manage your depression. Sometimes, medication might be necessary to help balance the chemicals in your brain and improve your mood.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re struggling with high-functioning depression, don’t wait to seek help. We have immediate openings for mental health support and psychiatry services. Our compassionate team is here to listen, understand, and provide the care you need. You don’t have to go through this alone – reach out today and take the first step toward feeling better.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. You deserve to feel good and enjoy life fully. We have immediate openings for our Substance Abuse IOP and psychiatry appointments.