What if you have high-functioning depression and are completely unaware of it?
Contrary to common conception, depression is not characterized by persistent melancholy, seclusion in the bedroom, and complete withdrawal from society. Tragically, that is what the majority of people assume and envision when they think of someone who has depressed symptoms.
Well, in light of the most recent study on depression, it's a completely false perception. The cause seems to be a lack of knowledge!
Anyone could be misled if they rely solely on online blogs and social media posts without supporting medical evidence. Because we live in a digital age, a lot of data is readily available. However, not all information is trustworthy and correct.
People put off getting medical care until their depression has advanced to the point of becoming severe because of incorrect information about depression.
There are several depression symptoms, and they vary from one person to another. You might not experience depression in the same way that others do.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (AKA: the bible of psychiatry) states that depression is having 5 or more of the below symptoms for 2 or more weeks, which is causing tremendous emotional distress or hampering your day-to-day functioning:
Depressed or sad mood
Easily annoyed or short-tempered.
Loss of interest or enjoyment in hobbies or activities that was previously enjoyed
Feeling guilty or worthless
Thoughts of death or suicide
Poor concentration
Difficulty making decisions
Feeling restless or slow
Feeling tired or fatigue
Overeating or loss of appetite
Weight loss or weight gain
Changes in sleep pattern
There are several varieties of depression, and consequently, the signs and symptoms may vary.
Even if you possess all you need to live, you may have a cold, harsh attitude toward life. You may have crossed off items from your to-do dream list, but you were never truly content within. You might not get the enjoyment you want from your normal activities or employment.
It is time to learn about high-functioning depression if you are going through something similar. High-functioning depression is a significant problem.
Do you know that high-functioning depression is the form of depression that worries Psychiatrists the most?
The majority of those who appear to have "perfect" lives and suffer from high-functioning depression often end up dying by suicide, in contrast to those who make a dramatic display of their problems and struggles in life, which is extremely alarming.
Sometimes you could think that your strong will alone is defeating your high functioning depression, but your experiences may be far more traumatic than most people understand.
Therefore, it is very important to know all the signs and symptoms of high-functioning depression to help yourself and your loved ones.
Here’s the 4 signs of High-Functioning Depression
1. Being overly critical and demanding
Depressives with high functioning are too hard on themselves and others. Beyond a certain point, being harsh causes tension and unfavorable emotions. They set high standards for themselves and others, and expect them to be exceeded.
2. Work and goals become boring
You risk losing interest in your work if you engage in a lot of self-criticism. You might perceive your work as a burden rather than as a source of fulfillment. It would be comparable to dragging a big boulder out against the sea! These lofty expectations are what turned into a hefty mountain on your shoulders. And the result is suffering and annoyance, which invites additional difficulties of life.
3. Issues With Substance Abuse
Many substance abusers, according to mental health professionals, also may have high functioning depression. It's not a fluke at all! Depression and substance misuse are like a never-ending loop. Because depression increases drug and alcohol addiction and consumption, which in turn intensifies depression.
Family members and friends are in a heartbreaking situation as they try desperately to communicate to a high-functioning alcoholic with depression about their problems.
4. Feelings of time being wasted
A high-functioning depressive may feel as though time is being wasted while exerting effort and accomplishing goals. They desire to accomplish something new. But they end up feeling hopeless and desperate.
It's possible that changing careers or picking up new interests won't bring them enough happiness or fulfillment. Still, they believe they are wasting their time. Little do they realize that anhedonia, one of depression's primary symptoms, is silently tormenting them.
Their feelings of hopelessness become so overwhelming that they desire to end their lives. They believe that dying will make them more happy.
Can it be cured?
Psychiatrists and other mental health professionals claim that high-functioning depression is quite curable and has a positive prognosis!
The most successful treatment for depression has been determined to be cognitive behavioral therapy. Patients claimed to participate in therapy and enjoy the journey of self-awareness.
Do you suspect you are depressed or that you have any of the above symptoms? Then seek immediate advice from a mental health expert.
Certainly, as soon as possible.
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