Have you ever felt incredibly sad? Does it feel like a weight is crushing your heart with no signs of letting up? Does it feel like things in your life will never change or get better? This is how many people with depression feel. According to The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), 264 million people worldwide live with depression. Moreover, there are different depression disorders that do not all manifest in the same ways.
High-functioning depression isn’t necessarily a clinical term. However, it does represent people who are depressed but may not appear to be to those around them. In other words, you wouldn’t know they were depressed just by looking at them.
What is High Functioning Depression ?
So, what is high functioning depression? High functioning depression is what it sounds like: a person who is experiencing symptoms of depression, but they can go about their day, talk to loved ones, go to work, and in some cases, these individuals are high achievers.
It is important to note that people with high functioning depression do still experience symptoms of depression. The high functioning aspect of this type of depression doesn’t make their experience a walk in the park.
Is High Functioning Depression Taken Seriously?
There are misconceptions about depression. Often these misconceptions come from people who have not experienced depression. For example, there is a misconception that people suffering from depressive disorders can easily get over their deep sense of sadness. But, of course, we all experience sadness from time to time.
It would be shocking if we didn’t, as that is a fundamental human emotion.
However, depression is not a fleeting emotion. Depression is often a psychological state triggered by chemical and biological imbalances in the brain. What does that mean? Depression and its symptoms are often out of the infected individual’s control.
People with depression usually cannot refrain from their thoughts to be in a better state of mind because of chemical and biological imbalances occurring in the brain.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of High Functioning Depression?
The symptoms of high functioning depression don’t look like other types of depressive disorders. This can make it difficult for others, or even those with HFD, to notice that they are experiencing this disorder. Because of this, HFD (high functioning depression) can occur for relatively long periods. The signs and symptoms of HFD include but are not limited to:
- Loss of interest in things that used to make one happy
- Trying to Achieve a level of perfection
- Feeling sad and empty inside
- Feeling hopeless
- Ruminating on the past and feeling guilty or worried because of past actions
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Persistent sadness
- Lack of motivation
- Low sense of self-esteem
- Lack of energy
- Irritability
- Slow or decrease in productivity
- Sense of loneliness
- Feelings of guilt
Despite these symptoms, people with HFD can often push through their daily lives. However, they typically rely on coping methods to get through their lives.
What Causes High Functioning depression?
There are a variety of factors that can cause HFD. In addition, it can be a combination of factors, such as biological, genetic, psychological, and life situations, that can cause HFD.
Here are a few more factors that can cause HFD:
- Stress
- Grief
- Trauma
- Relationship troubles
- Life transitions
- Addiction
- Other behavioral disorders
- Troubles at work
- Financial struggles
How Severe Can High Functioning Depression Get?
High-functioning depression can sometimes develop substance abuse habits and other more debilitating forms of depression. These factors can lead to self-harm.
Why Does High Functioning Depression Go on For So Long?
The symptoms of HFD can often make it difficult for a person with HFD and those around them to realize that they are suffering from the disorder. Furthermore, some individuals with this disorder can downplay their problems. They may think things like “other people have it worse.” This makes them less likely to seek treatment.
These individuals may also feel that they have no reason to be depressed. Unfortunately, this also keeps them from asking for help.
Treatment Options for High functioning Depression
Thankfully, there are multiple treatment options for HFD.
- Medication
- Limiting sugar, caffeine, and alcohol
- Cognitive behavior therapy
- Talk therapy
- Exercise
- Yoga
A doctor or therapist can recommend these treatments in doses or combination to help treat HFD.
Houston Counseling Services
If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from High Functioning depression, you must seek treatment. MYCHN offers virtual psychiatry, virtual counseling, and other behavioral health services. Please visit our website or call (281) 824-1480 to learn more.
Bottom Line
High-functioning depression is a serious disorder. These individuals can often continue their daily lives, making it difficult for them and their loved ones to realize they have HFD. Multiple factors cause HFD, from life situations to psychological and genetic causes. HFD can lead to more severe forms of depression as well.
HFD is not as debilitating as other forms of depression, but it is just as challenging to deal with. Therefore, if you suspect you or someone you know is affected by this disorder, it is crucial to seek treatment for an improved quality of life.
Resources
https://www.verywellmind.com/is-it-possible-to-have-functional-depression-4846575
https://www.michaelshouse.com/signs-of-high-functioning-depression/
https://www.wellsanfrancisco.com/high-functioning-depression-signs-and-symptoms/
