Functional depression doesn’t have a face. It doesn’t look like dysfunction we usually associate with people who suffer from major depression. In fact, some women might appear to have their lives in order – attending events, doing chores, honouring their career and family responsibilities – all while carrying a silent burden: feelings of emptiness and worthlessness. This is how to recognise it and how to get help.
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You get up, go to work, keep your appointments, and even socialise with friends. But underneath it all, you feel empty and numb. The feel detached and the only reason things get done is because you’re on autopilot. This can be a sign of what’s often called ‘functional’ or ‘high-functioning depression’.
It should be noted that functional depression is not a formal medical diagnosis. Instead, it differentiates from those who have the most commonly recognised type of depression, which can be completely debilitating. Functional depression describes someone who experiences all the symptoms while managing to maintain many aspects of daily life.
What is functional depression?
Often, depression is not being able to get out of bed. But that’s not the case for everyone. Some people continue doing well at work, appearing cheerfully and caring for their families. While privately they struggle with low mood and emotional exhaustion.
And this makes it harder to recognise, of course – both for the sufferer and those around them. They often dismiss their symptoms because they feel there’s no reason to feel depressed.
How is it different from depression?
We sometimes think that the severity of the depressive feelings is the determining factor. But really it’s about how much they interfere with daily functioning. Someone with major depression experiences difficulty working, managing tasks, sleep problems and withdrawal from socialising. Someone with functional depression can do all these things well, but it comes at a huge emotional cost.
Depression affects mood, energy, appetite, sleep, concentration and relationships, and symptoms range from mild to severe. Being able to function doesn’t mean someone isn’t depressed.
What are the signs?
- Pushing through routines – You do chores and work but it feels like a heavy climb
- Social masking – You show up to events and appointments but you feel detached
- Hiding feelings – You keep your struggles secret or dismiss them
- Quick fixes – You rely on caffeine, alcohol, junk food or endless scrolling to numb the low mood
- Tiredness – You feel drained even after rest
- Focus – Your brain feels foggy making it hard to concentrate
- Self-blame – You’re hard on yourself and feel like you don’t deserve happiness
- Sleep changes – You either struggle to fall asleep or sleep too much
- Body aches – Tummy or headaches with no clear medical cause
How can you find help?
Speak to a GP, psychologist or any mental health professional. Even if you don’t believe you’re struggling, they can assess you and recommend treatment, whether it’s talking therapy or medication.
Remember that you don’t have to stop functioning before you get help. Struggling while getting things done is still struggling! You deserve support – and you deserve to reclaim joy.
Disclaimer: SADAG) offers mental-health support and referrals. Its Cipla Mental Health Helpline is available 24/7 on 0800 456 789. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek urgent professional help rather than trying to manage them alone.
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