Millions of people in the United States live with depression. Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions around the world.
People have different experiences with depression. Some people may continue to function and appear relatively fine to outsiders while experiencing depressive symptoms. Mental health professionals may refer to this as having high-functioning depression.
This article will explore high-functioning depression. You will learn:
- The symptoms of high-functioning depression
- Signs you may be living with high-functioning depression
- The risks of high-functioning depression
- How to treat high-functioning depression
- Where to find treatment for depression
If you or someone you love needs treatment to address mental illness, you are not alone. Find the compassionate, effective treatment you need at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. Contact our intake team now to learn about our programs or to schedule an initial appointment.
What is Depression?
Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder. The symptoms of depression can keep people from functioning or feeling well. They may impact how a person behaves, thinks, and feels.
Depression may develop as the result of a significant life event, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship. It can also happen without a clear cause. Mental health professionals believe various factors can lead to depression. These include genetics, life experiences, medical conditions, and more.
While many people think of depression as sadness, depression is a clinical diagnosis with a range of physical and emotional symptoms. There are several forms of depression, including:
- Major depressive disorder (major depression)
- Perinatal depression
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
Without treatment, clinical depression tends to get worse. People with untreated depression are at higher risk of substance abuse, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and physical health conditions.
Depression typically responds well to treatment, which may include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of depression so that you can begin to manage your symptoms.
What is High-Functioning Depression?
Some people with persistent depressive disorder (PDD) have what some refer to as “high-functioning depression.” This term describes people who continue to function while experiencing depressive symptoms. People with high-functioning depression may go to work or school, manage responsibilities, and even engage in hobbies.
Some mental health experts believe the term “high-functioning depression” may be harmful. Some believe that this term dismisses the seriousness of a person’s depressive symptoms.
People with high-functioning depression and PDD (those who experience less severe symptoms of depression for two years or more) face significant challenges. They also face many of the same risks as those with major depression.
Signs of High-Functioning Depression
High-functioning depression is not a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, this term refers to people with persistent depressive disorder who continue to function.
People with PDD may experience:
- Difficulty making decisions
- Feeling lethargic or low energy a lot of the time
- Periods of excessive sleep or insomnia
- Low self-esteem
- Hopelessness
Some of the signs someone is living with high-functioning depression include:
- Feeling unmotivated to start or finish new tasks a lot of the time
- Feeling bad about yourself
- Being overly critical about yourself
- Losing or gaining weight without trying because of appetite fluctuations
- Having frequent periods of feeling hopeless or crying without a clear cause
- Feeling as though you are working hard to appear “normal” to others
- Considering using drugs or alcohol to manage your emotions
- Feeling overly pessimistic
It is important to address mental health issues as quickly as possible. Getting treatment can help you manage the symptoms of depression and feel more like yourself again.
What are the Risks of High-Functioning Depression?
Left untreated, depression will likely worsen. Here are some of the risks of not treating high-functioning depression.
Higher risk of substance use disorder (SUD)
People with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol to get temporary relief from their symptoms. This is called “self-medication.” People who self-medicate with drugs or alcohol may develop addiction.
Suicidal thoughts
People with depression sometimes develop thoughts of self-harm or suicide. These thoughts can lead to life-threatening behaviors and require immediate medical treatment.
Physical illness
Depression can affect the body in many ways. People may experience headaches, stomach discomfort, muscle aches, and other physical symptoms. Treating depression can help people reduce the physical symptoms it causes.
The earlier you treat depression, the sooner you can begin to manage symptoms. Seek depression treatment as soon as you recognize the symptoms of depression.
How to Treat High-Functioning Depression
Recognizing depression is the first step toward getting treatment. Once you recognize the symptoms, seek treatment from a licensed mental health provider as soon as possible.
Treatment for depression may include:
- Talk therapy to help you process emotions and learn healthy coping skills
- Medications to reduce the symptoms of depression
- Lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, developing a regular sleep routine, and eating a nutritious diet
Reach out to the Agape Behavioral Healthcare specialist to learn more about our mental health treatment and support programs. You can contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Depression
- American Psychiatric Association (APA): What Is Depression?
- University of Michigan Psychology: This Is What It’s Like to Live With High-Functioning Depression
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): The Reality of “High Functioning” Depression
