Georgetown, DE - SUN Behavioral Health Delaware recently published a blog post educating the community on what “high-functioning depression” is. This is a misleading term because it does not accurately describe a person’s experience. Someone who is considered to have high-functioning depression is not necessarily experiencing non-debilitating or severe symptoms. Instead, they appear to be able to function in their day-to-day lives. The stigma associated with depression often leads people to believe that others can’t be successful or function, but this is further from the truth. Those with high-functioning depression frequently have to use a lot of energy and effort to maintain the performance of being healthy around others. It is important to note that all depression experiences are valid. There is no “right” way to respond to this disorder.

“Depression manifests in different stages along a spectrum. For some people, it might look like not being able to get out of bed, eat a meal, or brush their teeth in the morning. They might seem down and disassociated with their surroundings. For others, they appear to be functioning well, going to work or school, and accomplishing tasks associated with being mentally healthy. For the latter, they appear on the outside to be healthy and happy. Still, on the inside or behind closed doors, they are experiencing intense symptoms of mental distress. Just because someone appears happy and healthy doesn’t mean they are,” the blog post states.

Major depression is a spectrum that results in people having different manifestations of intense psychological symptoms that make it difficult to function or appear happy. When it comes to high-functioning depression, people will appear put together, but behind closed doors, they might fall apart. These people will appear well, pay their bills, socialize with friends, engage in activities, and seem healthy to the eyes of the world. It is often difficult to notice clear signs of depression. These people are exhausted and drained of energy at the end of the day due to maintaining the mask of appearing “well.”

Any type of depression, including high-functioning depression, has the same risk factors. These include additional mental health conditions, life stressors, social factors, genetics, a low sense of self-worth, and traumatic experiences. However, those with high-functioning depression may have additional reasons for appearing healthy. One could be because they are masking their symptoms. They don’t want to be seen as a burden, judged, seen as weak, or fear they will face consequences for their depression. Another reason is that people only see one side of their life. This could be positive posts on social media or being the life of the party at social gatherings. Still, behind the computer screen or when they return home, they break down and can barely leave their bed.

Common symptoms that even someone with high-functioning depression will have include feelings of sadness, emptiness, guilt, worthlessness, anxiety, hopelessness, or fatigue, not being able to focus or make decisions, and changes to sleep and weight. People with high-functioning depression might even have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, which might come as a surprise to others and be challenging to know for sure without asking them. Physical symptoms, such as abdominal cramps, headaches, and aches and pains, are also expected.

Unless someone is with a person with high-functioning depression every second of every day, they might not know what they are going through. However, some things can be done to learn and help someone with this condition. First, check in with loved ones without judgment because they might not check in first. Simply asking how they are and being willing to listen goes a long way. Immediately take them to a crisis care center if they are dangerous to themselves or others.

“The best way for you to manage high-functioning depression is through treatment for depression. During treatment, you will be exposed to tools and therapies that will make managing depression easier. High-functioning depression is a terrifying and exhausting situation for many people, and you are not alone if you have been feeling that way. The good news is you will regain control and live a happier and healthier life through treatment,” the blog post continues.

SUN Behavioral Health Delaware solves unmet needs in the community. They provide depression treatment for adolescents and adults in Georgetown. Their crisis care is available 24/7 to help people find life-saving stabilization amid a mental health crisis. Additionally, their no-cost care assessment enables them to work with patients and their doctors to determine the best approach to care for their unique needs.

To learn more, visit their website or call 302-604-5600. SUN Behavioral Health solves unmet needs.

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