What Is High-Functioning Depression? Symptoms and Treatment

Mental HealthJune 13, 2024

High-functioning depression may not be a term you hear every day, but it’s a very real and challenging experience for many. Unlike the more recognizable signs of depression that can significantly disrupt a person’s daily life, high-functioning depression is harder to detect from the outside. So, what is high-functioning depression? This article will explore everything you need to know about high-functioning depression.

What is High-Functioning Depression?

The term “high-functioning depression” isn’t officially recognized in medical textbooks. Still, it serves as a useful descriptor for those who live with depressive symptoms while maintaining their responsibilities and outward appearance of normality. High-functioning depression is a condition where individuals face the typical symptoms of depression.

Yan Krukau | Pexels | High-functioning depression is a condition where individuals face the typical symptoms of depression.

Symptoms High-Functioning Depression

Here are some of the common symptoms of high-functioning depression:

Persistent Sadness

One of the hallmark symptoms of high-functioning depression is an underlying sense of sadness that doesn’t go away. This isn’t the sadness you feel after a bad day or a disappointing event; it’s a persistent feeling that colors every aspect of life, making even good days seem dull.

Loss of Interest in Activities

It might be surprising to learn that someone who seems so active and engaged can be experiencing a significant loss of interest in activities they used to love. This symptom of high-functioning depression can be particularly deceptive because sufferers often continue to engage in these activities out of obligation, not enjoyment.

Changes in Appetite and Sleep Patterns

Changes in eating and sleeping habits are common symptoms of depression, including high-functioning depression. Someone might overeat or not eat enough, or they might sleep too much or struggle with insomnia—all while maintaining a semblance of normality during the day.

Difficulty Concentrating

People with high-functioning depression can also experience problems with concentration. They might appear to be working effectively but spend extra hours on tasks because it’s harder to focus, or they might find themselves easily distracted.

Excessive Self-Criticism

A particularly insidious symptom of high-functioning depression is excessive self-criticism. This might manifest as a relentless internal dialogue of not being good enough or capable enough, even in the face of obvious successes.

Andrea Piacquadio | Pexels | A particularly insidious symptom of high-functioning depression is excessive self-criticism.

The Deceptive Appearance of Normalcy

From the outside, someone with high-functioning depression might seem to have everything together. They might be the coworker who is always on top of their tasks, the parent who never misses a school meeting, or the friend who always shows up when you need them. Yet, they might be feeling like they are barely holding on. This type of depression often goes unnoticed because the sufferers are adept at concealing their struggles, often due to fear of stigma or misunderstanding about what depression must look like.

Treating High-Functioning Depression

Despite the challenges in recognizing high-functioning depression, effective treatment is available. It often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Recognizing the symptoms in oneself or others can be the first step towards seeking help. Treatment can significantly improve quality of life, and with professional guidance, individuals can navigate their symptoms more effectively.

Freepik | Despite the challenges in recognizing high-functioning depression, effective treatment is available.

Recognizing high-functioning depression in oneself or others is not always straightforward. Many people continue to meet life’s demands without realizing how much they struggle or the toll it takes on their health. If you or someone you know might be experiencing these symptoms, reaching out for professional help can be a vital step. Everyone deserves to live a life not just free of depression but one filled with joy and fulfilment.