The term high-functioning depression is not a true diagnosis. However, it is a term that is commonly used to describe individuals with an ongoing form of depression, but higher -functioning or sometimes less severe. High-functioning depression can closely relate to Persistent depressive disorder (PDD).
High-functioning depression can be misleading as it is not a clinical disorder, therefore, not clearly defined. A person who may be experiencing this form of depression, it can be difficult to detect. This is due to the fact that mental illness can impair an individual’s life in many ways and an individual with high-functioning depression may be able to function normally but also experience some impairment in one or more areas in their life.
Persistence Depressive Disorder or Dysthymia is characterized as having a depressed mood for most of the day (Cite). An individual diagnosed with PDD may describe their mood as sad (American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Depressive Disorders. In Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.)). A person diagnosed with PDD, their symptoms will likely become part of the individual’s day-to-day experience (American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Depressive Disorders. In Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.)). Therefore, with this said, it is possible that a person with PDD to carry on their daily routine such as work or school. It is possible for those with Persistence Depressive Disorder to perform well but may continue to struggle internally instead of struggling to function in a normal way of life.
Symptoms:
Some symptoms of high-functioning depression include:
- Lack of energy
- Low self-esteem
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits
- Poor concentration
- Feelings of hopelessness
These are just a few symptoms that can be present in depression and an individual that is high functioning. Overall, a person with depression can also be high functioning usually when seen that they are able to function normally in their daily lives. Therefore, a person with depression that is high functioning can be difficult to really identify.
Of course, an individual that is high functioning can have symptoms that are impacting their daily lives where they are not able to function as normally as they would. At times, they may experience that their mood may change, for example, and there may be other stressors impacting them which can affect that person’s well-being and other areas of their life.
Being aware of these symptoms and signs that could indicate depression will allow one to get the help they need to better function. Though one may “normally function” with depression and be characterized as “high-functioning,” it is imperative that one is able to understand the impact the symptoms can have in one’s daily life.
Treatments:
Some treatments may include psychotherapy as well as medication. However, finding what is right for you may take some time but worthy enough to explore. It is imperative that one speaks openly in order to find the best care for themselves.
Though high-functioning depression is not a diagnosis, if an individual is experiencing signs of depression, it is best to speak with a professional. Many confuse high-functioning depression with PDD and that should not be a diagnosis unless diagnosed by a professional.
Though the symptoms may be low-grade, involving a professional can allow one to cope and process through the symptoms in a healthy manner. A person who is high functioning may be able to push through their emotions and feelings only to find out that it will return with more intense feelings and lead to deeper suffering.
Coping Skills:
Utilizing coping skills can help to decrease the severity of symptoms, allow the individual to recover, and overall feel better again. It does not mean the problem or situation is solved, but that we have returned to a calm state of mind in order to work through it and continue the journey to recovery. Here are some coping skills you can try.
It is important to develop and practice mindfulness to be able to stay aware of changes within ourselves that could indicate depression. If you are showing signs of depression, seek help and see a professional in order to work through it and to be able to function in your daily lives as you please.
