When you are in a depressed state, it is sometimes tough to recognize it. You might simply be going through the steps of the week, no real joy, no deep sadness. Maybe you feel tired or empty. Exhausted or out of touch. No real desire to move forward. Just an overall blanket of gray draped over your life.
Depression is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. However, not all types of depression are easy to see. One of the most insidious forms is high functioning depression. High functioning depression refers to a situation where a person experiences depression symptoms but is still able to function in their daily lives. They simply live in a state of nothingness.
What Is High Functioning Depression?
High functioning depression is a type of depression that does not fit into the traditional mold of depression. People with high functioning depression are able to carry out their daily tasks and responsibilities, but they experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other symptoms of depression. This can make it difficult for them to seek help or for others to recognize their struggle.
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Symptoms of High Functioning Depression
The symptoms of high functioning depression can be subtle and may be mistaken for everyday stress or exhaustion. Here are some symptoms:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Insomnia or excessive sleep
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
- Treatment for High Functioning Depression
High functioning depression can be challenging to diagnose and treat because individuals with this condition can still function in their daily lives. However, treatment is essential to help alleviate symptoms and prevent them from worsening.
10 Questions to Ask Yourself about High Functioning Depression:
- Do you find it hard to enjoy things you used to enjoy?
- Do you feel a sense of emptiness or hopelessness, even when things are going well?
- Do you struggle to get out of bed or motivate yourself to complete tasks?
- Do you often feel tired even after getting good sleep?
- Do you experience feelings of worthlessness?
- Do you have trouble concentrating or making decisions?
- Have you noticed changes in your appetite or weight?
- Do you tend to hide your emotions and put on a “happy face” in social situations?
- Do you feel like you’re just going through the motions of life without really feeling anything?
- Have you noticed a decline in your overall quality of life or functioning, despite appearing to be successful on the outside?
If you are answering yes to many of these questions, it’s a good idea to give us a call. We can go over some of what it means in a quick informal chat.
What are treatment options for high functioning depression?
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a highly effective treatment for high functioning depression. This type of therapy involves talking to a mental health professional about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can help you identify negative thought patterns and develop coping mechanisms to manage symptoms of depression.
Medication
Antidepressant medications can be an effective treatment for high functioning depression. However, it is essential to work with a mental health professional to determine the right medication and dosage for your specific needs. Antidepressants can have side effects and should be used under close supervision.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can also be an effective way to manage symptoms of high functioning depression. These changes may include regular exercise for better mental health, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, engaging in activities that bring you joy, such as hobbies or socializing with friends, can help improve your mood and overall well-being.
Getting Help for High Functioning Depression
At Story Wellness, we understand that depression can be a complex and difficult condition to recognize, especially when it manifests as high functioning depression. You may feel like you’re just going through the motions of life, not quite feeling like yourself, but still able to fulfill your daily obligations. However, we want you to know that you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Story Wellness in Costa Mesa offers a range of evidence-based treatments, including CBT and narrative therapy, to help you identify and manage symptoms of depression.
Our compassionate and experienced therapists will work with you to develop coping mechanisms that fit your unique needs and lifestyle.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of high functioning depression, don’t wait to seek help. Depression can be a debilitating condition that affects all areas of your life, from your relationships to your career. By reaching out to Story Wellness, you’re taking an important step towards healing and reclaiming your joy.
To talk more about high functioning depression, or talk about which treatment in Southern California is best, call Story Wellness at (866) 476-2823.
