Depression comes in all shapes and sizes and affects millions of people worldwide. For some people, it’s a debilitating illness that keeps them from functioning normally.
For others, it’s a milder form that doesn’t affect them as much day-to-day. This type is known as high functioning depression. If you struggle with high-functioning depression, don’t worry – you are not alone!
In this blog post, we will discuss what high functioning depression is and offer some tips on how to deal with it. So, keep reading to learn more!
What Is High Functioning Depression?
High functioning depression is a type of depression that doesn’t necessarily impede your ability to function on a day-to-day basis. However, it can still be a severe condition that affects your emotional well-being. People with high-functioning depression may seem like they have their life together on the outside, but internally, they struggle.
High-functioning depression can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms are not as apparent as other forms of depression. For example, someone with this type of depression may not have trouble getting out of bed or going to work.
However, they may still experience fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and social withdrawal symptoms. There is often a high level of functioning with high functioning depression, but it is not always sustainable.
If you think you might be struggling with high functioning depression, you must reach out for help. This depression type is treatable, but it’s not something you can “snap out” of. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about your symptoms and get the help you need.
How to Deal With High Functioning Depression?
If you’re struggling with high functioning depression, there are some things you can do to help yourself feel better. Here are a few tips:
Talk to Someone Who Understands
Talking to friends or family members about your depression can be helpful. However, it’s also important to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.
Try talking to a mental health professional or joining a support group for people with depression. Doing this can help you feel less alone and give you the support you need.
Take Care of Yourself
When struggling with depression, taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is imperative; ensure you eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. These things will help you feel good both physically and mentally.
Find a Hobby or Activity That Makes You Happy
Doing things that make you happy can help lift your mood and give you a sense of accomplishment. It can be anything from painting to hiking to playing an instrument. Find something that you enjoy and make time for it in your week.
Talk to Your Doctor About Medication
If you’re struggling with depression, medication may be an option for you. Talk to your doctor about your options and see if it’s right for you.
High functioning depression is a severe condition, but it is treatable. If you think you might be struggling with high functioning depression, reach out for help. These tips can also help you start positively coping with your depression.
What Causes High Functioning Depression?
There is no single cause of high functioning depression. Instead, it can be caused by genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. For example, people with a family history of depression may be more likely to develop the condition themselves.
Additionally, people who experience traumatic or stressful life events may be more susceptible to developing high functioning depression. So let’s take a closer look at some possible causes of high-functioning depression.
Genetic
Depression can run in families, so if you have a family member who has suffered from depression, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.
Biological
Some studies suggest that people with high-functioning depression may have different levels of certain chemicals in their brains. That can affect things like mood, energy level, and sleep patterns.
Environmental
Stressful or traumatic life events can trigger this type of depression. That includes the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss.
Psychological
People who struggle with perfectionism or negative thinking may be more susceptible to developing high-functioning depression. That may include people who are always trying to please others or who are their own worst critics.
Contact Options Residential for Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with high functioning depression, reach out to Options Residential, Inc. for help. We offer residential support, resources, treatment information, and treatment plans to help individuals and their families deal with this condition. In addition, we provide professional services for Ramsey, Hennepin, and Dakota Counties in Minnesota.
Contact us today at (952) 564-3030 to learn more about our services and how we can help you or your loved one start on the road to recovery. We look forward to helping you get the assistance you need.
