How to Spot High Functioning Depression: Signs and Treatment

High functioning depression can look like appearing okay to friends and family, while really you’re struggling on the inside. There are a lot of misconceptions about what depression looks like. But depression actually comes in many different forms and levels of intensity. Sometimes, symptoms can be hard to identify.

Seeking help can be daunting, but you are strong enough to begin healing. You can get treatment for high functioning depression to start living to your fullest potential.

What Is High Functioning Depression?

High functioning depression is a subtype of depression in which individuals experience symptoms of depression but can maintain their daily functioning, such as going to work or school, socializing, and completing daily tasks. It is characterized by a relatively high level of functional status, low depression scores, and little agitation.

High functioning depression can be challenging  to spot, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms you’re experiencing. This disorder usually has milder symptoms of major depression¹. And it can be caused by a combination of genetic factors² and other life experiences.

Despite feeling the opposite, putting on a happy face may seem like a good way to cope with depression at first. But ignoring the signs that you might be depressed can make it worse. High functioning looks different for everyone. Sometimes it seems like a way to protect yourself from uncomfortable feelings, and sometimes it looks like wearing a mask and pretending to be happy when you are not.

While your high functioning depression might feel manageable now, it could snowball into something more harmful. But co-occurring disorders like anxiety, major depressive disorder, and insomnia can also be an issue as a result of the depression³. And if you’ve experienced these feelings for 2+ years, you may have persistent depressive disorder (PDD), or dysthymia⁴. 

Signs of High Functioning Depression

If you think you have high functioning depression, it’s essential to talk to a licensed clinician who can diagnose you; however, here are some of the symptoms that you can identify⁴: 

• Low self-esteem
• Changes in sleep habits 
• Changes in appetite 
• Internalized distress
• Difficulty concentrating
• Trouble making decisions
• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• High achievement orientation
• Difficulty seeking help

These symptoms can have damaging and long lasting effects. Sometimes, high functioning depression can cause more harm than acute major depression⁵. But there are resources and tools available. You can stop the cycle and step into a more fulfilling, positive lifestyle by seeking professional help for your high functioning depression. 

Healing from the Inside Out: Treatment for High Functioning Depression

Acknowledging that you may have high functioning depression, and facing those negative feelings, is a vital first step in your journey toward healing. Getting a diagnosis and the right care can then get you to feel like the real you again.

Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOs) can help manage your symptoms. However, medications are even more effective when combined with other therapies⁵. 

Talk Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is proven to be one of the best treatments for depression⁶. This therapy helps you identify unhelpful thought patterns that might contribute to your high functioning depression. Then, you’ll learn how to replace those negative thoughts with positive ones. Once you build out these new ways of thinking, your emotions will likely become more manageable. And you’ll learn habits to overcome any new challenges that arise in the future.

Cognitive behavioral analysis system of psychotherapy (CBASP) is a therapy designed specifically for persistent depression⁷. CBASP helps you create a clear, step-by-step action plan to tackle your issues. You’ll learn how to develop constructive, positive habits. And you’ll focus on your actions’ impact on yourself and others. This, in turn, motivates you to maintain a positive lifestyle.  

Holistic Therapies

Healing requires looking at the whole “you.” And healthy lifestyle changes can enhance treatment for depression⁵. There are a few different holistic practices that you can incorporate into your recovery to heal your mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga builds physical and mental strength, which makes it an effective treatment for depression⁸. Yoga can provide community and a sense of belonging, and depression-related themes can be shared in classes. You’ll work through breathing exercises, learn resilience in different poses, and practice mindfulness. And you can do it from anywhere and on your schedule. 

Meditation and mindfulness are another instrumental way to treat depression. In fact, data shows that mindfulness-based training is as effective as other talk therapies for depression treatment⁸. These practices draw your attention to the present moment and your surroundings. By incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can become more aware of your emotions. And in time, you can better manage your feelings and choose to seek the positive.