When you think of someone who has depression, you may think of someone who appears very sad. You may even picture someone sitting alone in their room or someone who tends to spend all day sleeping. They’re withdrawn and isolated.
Many signs and symptoms of depression are well-known, especially in today’s world. There are some telltale signs that even people who don’t know much about this mental health disorder would be able to point out.
But did you know that other forms of depression aren’t as noticeable? High-functioning depression is one of those forms of depression that is just as serious but can be a lot more challenging to spot.
Let’s learn more about high-functioning depression and its causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is High-Functioning Depression?
High-functioning depression is a form of depression, but it actually isn’t a clinical term. High-functioning depression is the term that is used to describe someone who suffers from signs and symptoms of depression but is still able to get through their day-to-day tasks and routine.
The Cause
Similar to other forms of depression, there isn’t one specific cause of high-functioning depression. There are several factors believed to cause or contribute to someone developing high-functioning depression. These are some of the most common causes or factors of high-functioning depression:
- Environmental factors
- Family history
- Health issues
- History of mental illness
- Genetics
- Lack of support
- Life stress
- Relationship problems
The Signs and Symptoms
High-functioning depression can be more difficult to spot compared to the typical signs and symptoms shown with depression. That being said, there are certain signs that can help you or someone else realize that a struggle is present. These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of high-functioning depression:
- Extremely hard on yourself
- Fatigue
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Lack of motivation
- Low self-esteem
- Irritability
- Isolation
- Persistent sadness
- Sleeping problems
- Unable to make decisions
- Withdrawal
Treatment Options
Most of the time, people struggling with high-functioning depression will have a more challenging time than most seeking additional support because their signs and symptoms are a lot more difficult to recognize. While they may be experiencing signs and symptoms internally, their depression is a lot harder to spot from a family or friend, which can be debilitating.
If you believe that you or a loved one are struggling with high-functioning depression or another form of depression, it’s important to see additional support as soon as possible. Depression is a common but serious mental health disorder. The longer the signs and symptoms go on without support or treatment, the worse they can become.
Managing High-Functioning Depression
If you’re not quite ready for treatment through a licensed and trained mental health professional, that’s okay. There are certain lifestyle changes you can make to try to reduce or better manage some of the signs and symptoms:
- Acknowledge your thoughts and feelings
- Allow yourself to feel
- Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet
- Lean on your support system
- Move your body
- Practice self-care
- Prioritize your sleep
- Start journaling
Next Steps
Even if someone looks like they’re doing okay on the outside, it’s never a bad idea to check in with them. You never actually know what someone may be dealing with internally. If you’re concerned that you or a loved one is struggling with high-functioning depression, one of the best things you can do for them or yourself is to seek additional support. Working with a licensed and trained mental health professional can help to get to the root cause of the depression, work through any signs and symptoms, and better manage those thoughts and emotions moving forward. Don’t delay getting the help that you or your loved one deserves. Reach out today to set up an initial consultation for more information on depression therapy.