Depression is usually associated with visible sadness and gloom, but in reality, it looks the complete opposite in some people. Several people with depression appear to function well, holding down jobs, maintaining relationships, and seeming “fine” to those around them. This is often referred to as high-functioning depression, which is usually easy to dismiss since its symptoms hide behind the veil of productivity or functionality. But recognizing the hidden signs early can ensure you get the right support. To help, this article highlights eight (8) signs of high-functioning depression you should look out for.
Why High-Functioning Depression is Overlooked
The major feature of high-functioning depression is that individuals appear okay or put together on the outside, so their struggles are usually dismissed or unnoticed by others and sometimes even by themselves. Because the symptoms are not obvious, it can delay diagnosis and treatment, allowing symptoms to persist for years. This is why it is important to identify the signs below.
8 Signs of High-Functioning Depression
1. Constant Fatigue Despite Adequate Rest
Individuals with high-functioning depression may persistently feel drained even after having a full night’s sleep. The resultant fatigue can make it difficult for them to find energy for daily activities, even when this may not be obvious to others.
2. Perfectionism and Overworking
Whether consciously or not, people who have high-functioning depression can begin to hide their struggles behind increased productivity, overachievement, or setting unrealistic self-expectations.
3. Loss of Interest in Previously Enjoyed Activities
Activities that were once enjoyed, such as hobbies, passions, or joining in social gatherings, may start to feel dull, challenging, or even meaningless.
4. Difficulty Maintaining Genuine Connections
While they may maintain surface-level relationships, people with high-functioning depression may begin to find keeping deeper emotional connections to be exhausting or unfulfilling.
5. Persistent Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness
Even when they succeed at performing tasks, individuals with this type of depression may minimize their achievements or privately focus on perceived shortcomings.
6. Irritability or Unexplained Mood Shifts
Instead of obvious sadness, which is common with conventional depression, high-functioning depression may present as frustration, irritability, or emotional numbness that may have no basis.
7. Subtle Changes in Eating or Sleeping Patterns
Some may begin to sleep excessively or struggle with insomnia. Changes in appetite, like overeating or undereating, are also common among persons with high-functioning depression.
8. Difficulty Experiencing Joy or Satisfaction
Since accomplishments may start to feel empty, there can be a constant sense that “something is missing”, making it difficult to experience satisfaction.
When to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, then reaching out to a mental health professional is an important step. With treatment, which may include therapy, lifestyle strategies, and in some cases medication, there is a great chance of significantly improving mental health and quality of life.
Bottom Line
High-functioning depression is real, even though hidden behind a mask of competence. By learning to spot the subtle signs, you can better support yourself or someone you care about. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. At Reverent Health Psychiatry, we offer compassionate and expert telehealth care for people dealing with high-functioning or persistent depressive disorder, supporting them through their mental health journey.
