High-Functioning Depression: The Silent Sufferer

Are you the gloomy friend? The cynical one, who never seems to see the positive side of things? Or maybe you find yourself feeling low all the time, but just chalk it up to another stressful week. You’re tired and feeling socially withdrawn–that’s just “how I am” you think. Or…maybe it’s something else entirely.

If you’ve ever felt like this, or seen a loved one with similar symptoms, you or your loved one may suffer from more than just “bad days” or a cranky disposition. You may be struggling with high-functioning depression

Photo of a woman sitting on a rock next to the beach on a windy and sunny day. Are you are struggling with depression symptoms and unable to overcome them on your own. With depression counseling in Parkland, FL you can begin working toward overcoming your symptoms with support.

What is High-Functioning Depression?

High-functioning depression is a condition in which an individual experiences symptoms of depression, is able to maintain a high level of functioning in their daily life, and appears to be living a “normal life.” Often this type of depression is overlooked, especially by the person suffering it. For example, you may think that because you’re successful at work, have friends and family in your life, and generally “keep it together” you can’t possibly be struggling with a mental health condition.

One of the challenges of high-functioning depression is that it can often go unnoticed or unrecognized, both by the person experiencing it and by others around them.

Symptoms of High-Functioning Depression

Generally, high-function depression means that you often feel down, but may be able to otherwise function throughout life. So many people from so many different walks of life may suffer from high-functioning depression; a stay-at-home mom, a successful business owner, a straight-A student, or your best friend. The symptoms are often “silent” and not easily observed by even those closest to you.

High-functioning depression can manifest itself in many different ways. You may:

  • Feel unworthy and generally look down on yourself
  • Have difficulty concentrating, whether at work, school, or during a conversation
  • Struggle to go to social outings and find that you’d rather withdraw from everyone
  • Lose interest in activities or hobbies that you otherwise would enjoy
  • Feel tired or have low energy all the time
  • Feel guilty for no apparent reason
  • Lose your appetite or not be able to satiate yourself
  • Find yourself tempted to rely on substances like drugs or alcohol to feel happy 

What to Do if You Suspect You Have High-Functioning Depression

If after reading this blog you find yourself thinking “Wow, maybe I have high-functioning depression,” first know that there can be better days. You may not feel as if you need or maybe deserve help but you should know that regardless of whether your depression is labeled as “severe” or not, any sort of depression diminishes your quality of life.

Photo of a man holding a hand on his head looking at a stack of books stressed. Struggling with high functioning depression? Discover how depression counseling in Parkland, FL can help you cope in a healthy ways.

You shouldn’t have to live a life that’s lacking. High-functioning depression is treatable with therapy, especially with CBT, a type of therapy that I specialize in here in Parkland, FL. If you’d like to read more about how I treat depression, you can do so here. It may be hard to recognize the signs of high-functioning depression, but it is important that you recognize that it’s time for you to thrive again.

Ready to Begin Depression Counseling in Parkland, FL?

If you’re struggling with high-functioning depression and seeking professional support, take the first step towards healing today at Invigorate Counseling. Our compassionate and experienced depression therapists are here to provide you with the guidance and tools you need to overcome your challenges. Start your journey towards improved mental well-being by following these three simple steps:

  1. Request an appointment and schedule a complimentary consultation to see if we’ll be a good fit
  2. Meet with me depression therapist, Lindsay Howard
  3. Begin your healing journey and start managing your high-functioning depression in a healthy way!
Photo of a woman sitting in a chair speaking with a therapist. If you're looking for a depression therapist who can help you manage your symptoms, discover how depression counseling in Parkland, FL can help you.

Other Services Offered at Invigorate Counseling

At Invigorate Counseling, I am here to assist you with whatever mental health concern you may be facing. This is why I provide multiple services for my clients to help them manage and even overcome their symptoms. In addition to depression counseling at my Florida practice, I offer CBT TherapyAnxiety TherapyGrief Counseling, and Addiction Counseling. My services are for clients in the state of Florida located in Parkland, Coconut CreekFort LauderdaleBoca RatonPalm Beach GardensOrlandoGainesville, TallahasseeMiami, and Miami Beach. For more about my practice, check out my FAQs and Blog!

Photo of Dr. Lindsay Howard, Parkland, FL. If your struggling with depression, discover how depression counseling in Parkland, FL can help you begin managing.

Dr. Lindsay Howard, Psychologist, Psy.D.

Hi! My name is Lindsay Howard, and I specialize in CBT therapy for depression and anxiety. I serve the community of Parkland, FL, and all residents of Florida. If you’d like to learn more about how I can help you, feel free to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me.

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