Understanding High-Functioning Depression: Signs and Symptoms

💡High-functioning depression is often difficult to identify as people with this condition are driven, successful in their careers and relationships, and can maintain a healthy lifestyle.

💔Symptoms of high-functioning depression include a general sense of sadness, loss of joy, diminished energy, self-criticism, self-doubt, and difficulty relaxing.

🚫People with high-functioning depression may resort to maladaptive coping skills, such as substance abuse or excessive work, to escape their underlying issues.

😢High-functioning depression can lead to irritability and a short fuse, making small issues seem like significant problems.

🌸Seeking mental health services and addressing high-functioning depression is essential to prevent symptoms from worsening or developing into a more severe disorder.

What is high-functioning depression?

—High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, is a form of depression where individuals maintain daily functioning while experiencing persistent sadness and other depressive symptoms.

How can I identify high-functioning depression in myself or someone else?

—Look for signs such as a general sense of sadness, loss of joy, self-criticism, diminished energy, irritability, maladaptive coping skills, self-doubt, and difficulty relaxing.

Can high-functioning depression lead to more severe mental health issues?

—Yes, if left untreated, high-functioning depression can worsen and develop into more severe disorders. Seeking help and addressing the symptoms is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.

What are maladaptive coping skills?

—Maladaptive coping skills are unhealthy strategies individuals use to manage stress and negative emotions, such as substance abuse, excessive work, or avoidance.

How can I support someone with high-functioning depression?

—Offer understanding, listen without judgment, encourage them to seek professional help, and provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

00:09High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, is difficult to identify due to the absence of overt symptoms.

01:31People with high-functioning depression may appear successful in their careers and relationships, but they experience a general sense of sadness and loss of joy.

03:03Symptoms of high-functioning depression include diminished energy, self-criticism, irritability, maladaptive coping skills, self-doubt, and difficulty relaxing.

04:42It is important to seek mental health services to prevent symptoms from worsening or developing into more severe disorders.