When Was High-Functioning Depression Termed?

Depression is a common mental health disorder that many struggle with. Unfortunately, many people struggle with depression in plain sight, not even realizing they struggle with this condition as they juggle personal and professional responsibilities. This can oftentimes be referred to as high-functioning depression.

Keep reading to learn more about what high-functioning depression is, and when high-functioning depression was termed below.

At Mental Health Hope, we offer leading mental health treatment. Ready to start your recovery? Contact us today to learn more about how you can lead a healthier, happier life.

 

What Is High-Functioning Depression?

Before diving into the question of when high-functioning depression was termed, it is important to understand what high-functioning depression means.

“High-functioning depression” is not a formal clinical diagnosis. Individuals struggle with depressive symptoms; however, their symptoms of chronic low mood, among other depressive symptoms, follow them as they continue managing day-to-day life.

While some individuals with severe depression may be unable to get out of bed, other individuals with high-functioning depression may be able to hold a job and maintain relationships; however, they still struggle with depressive symptoms.

Therefore, unlike major or severe depression, which tends to involve more severe and disruptive episodes, high-functioning depression can be more subtle and thus more difficult to spot and diagnosis. That subtlety is also part of what makes it so dangerous, because people appear to be functioning well when in reality they have been struggling for some time with depressive symptoms.

 

When Was High-Functioning Depression Termed?

So, when was high-functioning depression termed?

 

The clinical history behind what we now call high-functioning depression spans several decades. However, the term high-functioning depression has only more recently become more familiar due to increasing mental health awareness and more openness toward talking about mental illness today.

The phrase “high-functioning depression” itself became part of mainstream conversation largely through the mental health awareness movement within the last 10-20 years.

Mental illness is an invisible condition that impacts millions worldwide.  Many people with chronic low-grade depression struggle to call it depression at all, because they are still getting up every morning and meeting their obligations. The term high-functioning depression gives individuals a term to use for the experience and symptoms they struggle with. It also provides them with the ability to seek support for their symptoms more easily. 

 

Signs of High-Functioning Depression

Because high-functioning depression does not always look like what people expect, it can go unrecognized for years. Some common signs to look out for include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness 
• Low energy and chronic fatigue
• Difficulty finding joy in activities you once enjoyed
• Withdrawing from relationships or social situations
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• And more

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be struggling with high-functioning depression, it is critical to consider seeking professional support so that you can get the help that you need to safely and effectively manage your symptoms. 

 

Help Is Available

High-functioning depression may be easy to overlook. You should never have to hide, ignore, or minimize your mental health struggles simply because you are still able to function.

Our compassionate team of mental health professionals is here to help you every step of the way. At Mental Health Hope, we offer leading mental health treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery journey.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How is high-functioning depression different from regular depression?

High-functioning depression is different from major depressive disorder primarily in its severity and duration. Major depression tends to involve more intense episodes that significantly disrupt daily life. In contrast, high-functioning depression is characterized by a lower-grade but chronic and persistent low mood that lasts for two years or more. 

Because people with high-functioning depression are still able to meet their daily obligations, the condition often goes undiagnosed and untreated for far longer than it should, because many may overlook their symptoms and how they are impacting their quality of life. 

 

Can high-functioning depression get worse over time?

Left untreated, yes high-functioning depression can worsen over time and significantly impact your overall health and quality of life for the worse. Chronic low mood can increase your risk of developing major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and unhealthy coping behaviors such as substance use. This is why it is so important not to ignore or minimize symptoms simply because you are still able to get through the day. Seeking professional support early can make a significant difference in your long-term health and overall well-being.

 

What is the best treatment for high-functioning depression?

While there is no one “best” treatment for high-functioning depression, there are several effective treatment options available. High-functioning depression is very treatable with the right professional support. 

Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps patients identify and reshape negative thought patterns and turn them into more positive thoughts and behaviors. Holistic approaches such as mindfulness, healthy lifestyle habits, and stress management strategies can also play an important supporting role. Personalized treatment plans are important and help individuals better understand their condition, symptoms, and root causes, which is potentially why they may be struggling with their condition.