Signs of High Functioning Depression
Written by Amy Rollo, M.A., LPA, LSSP, LPC-S
Founder, Heights Family Counseling
“I feel like we have all been walking around with high functioning depression this year.”
I wrote this in a professional Facebook group in response to someone concerned about their employee’s job performance. Then, I recommended compassion for their employee’s experience and my phone lit up. I kept getting notifications from Facebook telling me that someone liked my post. I think this is because so many people resonated with this statement.
2020 and 2021 tested us. It took away many of the coping tools we have. No more social connections or vacations, only more stress and struggles. Everyone was in survival mode, AKA fight, flight, freeze. Many people felt shame and guilt since they weren’t performing at the same level before the pandemic. Many were not aware that they were experiencing a high-functioning depression fog. Today I want to share with you some common signs of high-functioning depression.
Signs You’re Dealing with High-Functioning Depression:
You are always searching for your next dopamine hit
You may shop online waiting for the next package to arrive. Or, you may drink more, use dating apps to flirt, or do other activities that give short-term pleasure. But, in the end, you're feeling pretty blah.
You aren’t taking care of your health as you did in the past
Many gyms closed and many people felt unsafe attending during the pandemic. It makes sense that so many people took a break from their workout routines. The pandemic continued for what seems like forever. As a result, many continued to neglect their health. Some turned to food takeout services as a source of comfort instead of healthy cooking. Others opted for binging Netflix instead of going for a run or workout. Some people with high functioning depression might drink more than they had in the past. Many who once saved weekends to drink wine or have margaritas were consuming alcohol nightly.
You don’t work at the same pace or log the same amount of hours that you did in years past
Many express feeling like they can’t keep up with their previous workload. High functioning depression can appear as problems concentrating on work, or less motivation. It makes sense that if we are in chronic survival mode for a year. So, it’s hard to concentrate on your daily tasks. It also makes sense that this is more difficult working than ever before. Routines changed and many juggled childcare tasks with working from home. Others lost their purpose. They seldom left the house or had work interactions like they were able to pre-pandemic. Many are still working from home or working with masks. Life feels different and there is a constant reminder of the pandemic at every turn.
High-functioning depression can also look like responsibility avoidance
One of the first places we avoid is sleep. You might find yourself staying up later than ever before, as you avoid the next morning’s routine and work. You might keep watching Netflix series into the night, even if you aren’t that interested in it. You might also delay paying bills, completing work tasks, or even neglect your family and friends.
People with high functioning depression can often mask their struggles. Yet, they can still feel something is off. Another sign of high functioning depression is feeling less motivated for future goals. You might be able to make it through work and or school responsibilities but aren't thinking of 1, 3, and 5-year plans. You are just getting by.
Social Media Escapism
High-functioning depression can also look like scrolling through social media to escape the current moment. You might find it hard to put the phone down. Perhaps, you find yourself reaching for it even though you have nothing to look at.
Oh no! This sounds like me, what should I do?
If any of this sounds like you, there is no need to panic. The good news is that it makes sense that so many are struggling since the start of the pandemic. This has been a challenging time! But, many people are ready for life to feel different, and counseling can be the big push to getting back to “normal.”
Our therapists have the training to weed through the comments that you might say in therapy. This might include the “‘I’m making it,” “I’m okay,” “don’t worry about me” B.S. that many with high functioning depression often get away with. We are here to identify and sit with the emotions. That means feeling them, discovering new motivators, and walking with you. We are humans treating humans, and know what depression can feel like. But we also what healing feels like, too.
Consider Depression Therapy:
If you're struggling, depression therapy is a great way to heal and discover new coping skills. A skilled therapist can help you find meaning, purpose, improve mood, and achieve goals. At Heights Family Counseling, we offer online and in-person counseling. So, you feel comfortable receiving services during the pandemic. You can work with a therapist from the comfort of your surroundings at a time that works well for you.
Begin Depression Therapy in Houston or San Antonio, TX:
Our team of skilled therapists is passionate about helping you build the life you want. We are value-driven and help people navigate life to make sense of their story. Together, we ensure they are creating meaning and purpose in their lives. We would love to work with you. Follow these steps to begin counseling in Houston or San Antonio, TX, or online therapy in Texas:
Contact our counseling clinic to set up a free phone consultation
Meet with one of our therapists
Begin depression counseling and find your way forwards to healing.