The word "depression" gets thrown around a lot these days, and you might wonder if it applies to you. Maybe you keep a busy schedule, excel at work, and stay social, yet inside, you struggle with persistent sadness or emptiness. This might make you think, "Is something deeper going on with my mental health?" Asking this question is a key step toward better self-awareness and understanding. 

Depression or High Functioning Depression

Depression is both a symptom and a disorder. Clinical depression refers to a mental health disorder characterised by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. High-functioning depression, also known as functional depression, is a lay term used to describe individuals who experience symptoms of a depressive disorder but appear outwardly fine. This type of depression can be particularly challenging to identify and address because the individuals affected often seem "fine" to others. People with high functioning depression manage to maintain their daily responsibilities, meet work demands, and engage in social activities, all while struggling internally with depressive symptoms.

Origins of High Functioning Depression

Combinations of genetic, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors can result in high-functioning depression. A family history of depression or other mental health issues, long-term stress, or traumatic experiences are common risk factors. In addition, the disorder may be exacerbated by personality features including excessive self-criticism or low self-esteem. Significant life transitions or persistent difficulties, such marital or financial difficulties, also play a significant role in the development of high-functioning depression.

Key Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of high-functioning depression can be mild but of consequence, and because the person might continue to go about their everyday life, they are often overlooked. This facade of normalcy belies the very genuine and sometimes extremely unpleasant interior fight. Some crucial indicators are as follows:

Note: It's important not to self-diagnose. If you recognise these symptoms in yourself, please reach out to a mental health professional at Heart It Out for proper guidance and support.

Coping Strategies and Preventive Measures

The combination of coping mechanisms and preventative actions is essential in assisting individuals with high-functioning depression to treat the symptoms while addressing their mental health and overall quality of life. One can support themselves by practising these methods regularly:

In conclusion, high-functioning depression can be challenging to identify and manage. Early intervention and professional support are essential for effective treatment. Despite its complex causes, managing this condition is possible with the right help. Don’t face it alone—reach out to a mental health professional or contact Heart It Out to take a depression test for support and resources.

For professional support, talk to a mental health expert at Heart It Out today!