What is High-Functioning Depression?
Depression is a common, serious mental health issue. The symptoms of depression can impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They may influence a person’s daily functioning, relationships, and other important aspects of their lives.
Depression may develop as a result of a stressful life event. People may develop depression after the death of a loved one, job loss, medical condition, or other events. In some cases, depression may develop without a clear cause.
Mental health professionals believe many factors are responsible for the development of a mental illness. Genetics, trauma, behaviors, and other factors may contribute to someone developing mental health conditions.
Many people think of depression as sadness. However, depression is a clinical diagnosis with physical and emotional symptoms.
There are several forms of depression, including:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) (major depression)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Perinatal depression
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
Some people refer to persistent depressive disorder (PDD) as high-functioning depression. People with high-functioning depression may experience symptoms of depression but continue to function as usual. A person must experience milder symptoms of depression for at least two years to receive a diagnosis of PDD.
People living with high-functioning depression may continue to go to work, care for others, and even engage in hobbies. While they appear to function as usual, they still experience the same symptoms and risks of clinical depression.
7 Signs of High-Functioning Depression
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), people with persistent depressive disorder (PDD), experience symptoms that affect their mood, thoughts, and behaviors for at least two years.
Here are seven signs someone may be living with high-functioning depression.
1. Low motivation
People with high-functioning depression may lack the energy and motivation to do many things. They may fall behind on responsibilities or only do what is absolutely necessary each day. People may struggle to work toward goals, socialize, or accomplish things outside basic requirements.
2. Low self-esteem
People with high-functioning depression may have low self-esteem. They may be overly critical of themselves or struggle with guilt and shame. People with PDD may blame themselves for things outside of their control or feel excessively shameful about small mistakes.
3. Sleep changes
People with PDD may struggle with sleep. They may have a hard time falling asleep or wake up too early. They may also have periods where they sleep too much or have a hard time getting out of bed.
4. Physical changes
People with high-functioning depression may sometimes gain or lose weight without trying. They may have periods where they eat for comfort or forget to eat because of their depression. They may have fluctuating motivation to care for themselves in other ways, such as showering, laundry, and basic hygiene.
5. Working hard to appear “normal”
People with PDD may feel as though they spend a lot of mental energy trying to appear “normal” to others. They may feel emotionally drained or fatigued often or feel obligated to socialize when they don’t want to.
6. Hopelessness
People with high-functioning depression may have a sense that what they do doesn’t matter. They may feel hopeless or pessimistic about the future.
7. Substance abuse
People with PDD are at higher risk for substance abuse. They may self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to dull emotional feelings or help them socialize.
Although some use the term “high-functioning depression” to describe persistent depressive disorder, people with PDD still struggle with symptoms that impact their daily lives. People with high-functioning depression must seek treatment to avoid worsening symptoms and other complications.
Agape Behavioral Center accepts many private insurance plans
Treating High-Functioning Depression
Recognizing the signs of high-functioning depression is the first step in getting help. Depression typically responds well to treatment. Getting treatment early can help people manage their symptoms most effectively.
Here is an overview of the treatment for high-functioning depression.
Medications
Some people with PDD benefit from taking antidepressant medications. These medications can help to reduce depressive symptoms, allowing people to feel better and function more effectively.
Talk therapy
There are many therapeutic approaches that can help to treat depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy in depression treatment. This type of therapy helps people explore the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Talk therapy helps people process their emotions and experiences in a safe place. People may also learn new coping skills that help them improve functioning.
Lifestyle changes
People with depression may benefit from making simple lifestyle changes. These may include eating a nutritious diet, creating a healthy sleep routine, exercising regularly, and spending time with others more often.
People with high-functioning depression don’t have to settle for just “getting by.” Working with mental health specialists can help people make effective treatment plans. These plans can help to reduce and manage their symptoms, allowing people to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love lives with high-functioning depression or another mental health condition, you are not alone. Find compassionate, evidence-based treatment at Agape Behavioral Health.
Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- University of Michigan: This Is What It’s Like to Live With High-Functioning Depression
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): The Reality of “High Functioning” Depression
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Persistent Depressive Disorder
