The Hidden Struggle: What People With High Functioning Depression Want You to Know

High-functioning depression can be a hidden battle, as people with high-functioning depression may seem to have it all together on the outside, but inside they are struggling.

What is high-functioning depression?

Just because you are typically able to get out of bed and present as “normal” to the world around you doesn’t mean that you’re not suffering. High-functioning depression is a type of depression that affects a person's daily life but does not prevent them from functioning normally in society. This is not a term that is used by clinicians - but it is commonly used as a term to refer to people that are high functioning despite having depression. 

These people may appear to be successful and happy on the outside, but they struggle with persistent sadness, negative thoughts, and a low mood on a daily basis. It can last for years and significantly affect a person's relationships, work, and overall happiness. Unlike major depression, which can cause severe symptoms that interfere with daily life, high-functioning depression is a more chronic and less intense form of depression, but it still requires treatment and support.

Here are some things that people with high-functioning depression want you to know:

• They may seem fine, but that doesn’t mean they are: They are often very good at masking their emotions and putting on a brave face. They may seem happy and successful, but inside they are struggling with persistent sadness and negative thoughts.

• It’s not just a case of feeling down: It is a real mental health condition, not just a case of feeling down or having a bad day. It can last for years, affecting a person's daily life, relationships, and overall happiness.

• They don’t always know why they feel this way: It can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, and it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. It can also be challenging for them to understand their own emotions and thoughts.

• They need support and understanding: They often feel isolated and misunderstood. They may not reach out for help, as they do not want to burden others or appear weak. It is important for friends, family, and colleagues to show support and understanding and to be a shoulder to lean on when needed.

• They don’t want to feel this way: It can make life feel like a constant struggle, and people with this condition often feel like they are trapped in a cycle of negativity and self-doubt. It is not a choice, and they do not want to feel this way.

• They need help: People often do not seek help as they feel like they should be able to manage their emotions on their own. However, seeking help and receiving support from a mental health professional can make a big difference.

• They are not just making excuses: They may often feel like they are not good enough, and they may avoid social situations or activities that they used to enjoy. It is important to understand that these feelings and behaviours are a symptom of the condition and not an excuse.

• They want to get better: They want to improve their mental health and well-being, but it can be a long and difficult journey. It is important for friends, family, and colleagues to show understanding and support, and to be there for them through the ups and downs.

Remember, those with high-functioning depression are not lazy or making excuses, they are struggling with a real mental health condition. Encourage them to seek help, and offer your support and understanding. A simple gesture like checking in and asking how they are feeling can go a long way in helping them feel less isolated and more supported.

It's time to break the stigma surrounding mental health and to show compassion and support for those who are struggling with high-functioning depression. By educating ourselves and spreading awareness, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive society for those who need it most.

Sources: 

Medical News Today. (2021, August 20). High-functioning depression: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-functioning-depression 

Healthline. (2020, March 12). This is what high-functioning depression looks like. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/this-is-what-high-functioning-depression-looks-like 

Psycom.net. (2021). High-functioning depression: Symptoms, causes, and treatments. Retrieved from https://www.psycom.net/depression/high-functioning-depression   

Everyday Health. (2021, July 23). Is high-functioning depression a real diagnosis? Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/is-high-functioning-depression-a-real-diagnosis/