What Is High Functioning Depression 11 Signs To Spot This Silent Mental Health Struggle

Whenever someone is reeling from depression, the conventional image that comes to mind is major life disruption, where the person is unable to get out of bed, withdraws from work, or isolates themselves from their social circle. But it is important to know that depression does not always show up in such an obvious manner.

Dr Aditi Govitrikar, psychologist, Mrs World and mental health advocate, told HT Lifestyle that this type of depression, called high-functioning depression, is often misunderstood and how to spot its signs.

Dr Govitrikar called the misunderstanding of this form of depression dangerous. "When depression hides itself beneath achievement, one doesn’t know where help is due," she remarked. You may see the person being very efficient and doing well outwardly. But she expressed concern over how even close family members and friends may fail to recognise the emotional struggle beneath the surface.

“People suffering from depression in high-functioning states tend to be very good at covering up their pain,” she added.

Explaining further, Dr Govitrikar shared that this form of depression may involve a persistently low mood, loss of interest, and emotional exhaustion, even when the person appears efficient and successful at work and in relationships.

Though high-functioning depression is not recognised as a medical term or clinical diagnosis, it describes a state where a person continues to carry out daily activities while silently struggling with depressive symptoms.

The mental health advocate warned that pushing through an internal state of low motivation and overwhelming sadness may have long-term effects on several aspects of wellbeing, including sleep, social interactions, focus, hormonal balance and immunity.

“One becomes at risk of increased chances of suffering from anxiety disorders, burnout, addiction to substances, mental breakdown, and even self-mutilation or suicide,” Dr Govitrikar added.

This is why both individuals and their close ones need to be aware of the signs of high-functioning depression. Here are some signs which the expert shared:

As a mental health advocate, Dr Govitrikar urged people to remember that sometimes, the person who appears emotionally strong and resilient may be struggling the most psychologically beneath the surface. This makes it all the more important to recognise burnout signs even in those who appear successful, efficient and emotionally composed.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.