Understanding and Managing High-Functioning Depression

Apr. 11

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (2022) reports approximately 21 million adults in the United States have had at least one major depressive episode. Factors like family history, poverty, unemployment, discrimination, stress, trauma, abuse, or substance abuse can contribute to depression. Major depressive disorder is diagnosed when symptoms like loss of interest, sleep problems, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, hopelessness, and thoughts of death and dying persist for at least 2 weeks. These symptoms can make life feel exceedingly complex and meaningless. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or dial 911 if you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency.

What is High-Functioning Depression?

High-functioning depression refers to people who experience depressive symptoms but can still manage daily responsibilities like school, work, and relationships. While high-functioning depression is a non-clinical term and is not an official diagnosis, it still describes a brutal reality for many people. Those with high-functioning depression often feel alone and misunderstood, hiding their struggles to avoid judgment, rejection, or unwanted advice. Mental health disorders have a dangerous way of building upon themselves. It's important to recognize when you need help and seek support to break the cycle of unhealthy behaviors.

Understanding the Cycle of Depression

To tackle depression, you must understand the cycle that includes negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Examples of irrational and negative beliefs can consist of thoughts such as, "I need to be perfect," "No one likes me," "I always mess things up," "I should be at the same level as my peers," or "Why did I even try?" Using critical and rigid language can then lead to feelings of sadness, anger, shame, guilt, loneliness, or helplessness. Working with a mental health professional such as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) or Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern (RMHCI) can help you identify and challenge these negative patterns.

Coping Strategies

Even if you're not ready to see a professional, you can start using coping strategies to improve your mental health:

1. Be aware of your emotions and their impact on your behavior.

1. Learn to handle difficult emotions in a healthy way.

2. Exercise, walk, practice yoga, or lift weights.

3. Socialize, spend time with supportive people, and join clubs or groups.

4. Practice self-care, like taking a warm and relaxing bath, limiting news exposure, dressing up, getting a haircut, and attending to your spiritual needs.

5. Break tasks and goals into smaller, more manageable steps.

6. Keep a gratitude journal.

7. Volunteer and make a difference in others' lives.

Final Thoughts

It's hard to think about those suffering in silence but remember that hope and healing are possible. I believe in the power of human connection, love, and our duty to help one another. I hope this post helps you or someone you know overcome these challenges. If you'd like to learn more about mental health topics, contact me at connect@humanfreely.com.

Additional Resources

For additional information on depression and other mental health disorders, you can also visit the Drugwatch website which provides information on high-risk medical products and health issues.

References

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022, January). Major depression. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression#:~:text=An%20estimated%2017.3%20million%20adults%20in%20the%20United,among%20adult%20females%20%288.7%25%29%20compared%20to%20males%20%285.3%25%29.

About the Author

Erica Krider, MA, is a dedicated mental health professional and the Founder & CEO of Human Freely® LLC. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University, West Palm Beach, FL, Erica is on her way to becoming a fully licensed counselor in Florida. She is also a Board Member for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.org). Passionate about faith, family, and fostering resilience, she empowers communities with hope and healing. Erica also hosts the popular podcast, Mental Health Insight with Erica Krider, where she shares valuable mental health resources and insights. Explore more about her work and find helpful resources at www.humanfreely.com.

Erica Krider