High-Functioning Depression | Symptoms, Signs & Treatment in Delhi – Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health

Pavitra Shankar
5 days ago
2 min read

🌿 What Is High-Functioning Depression?

Ever met someone who seems to “have it all together” — doing well at work, managing family responsibilities, even smiling often — yet feels empty inside?That could be high-functioning depression (also called Persistent Depressive Disorder or dysthymia).

It’s a quieter form of depression where the person continues to function externally, but internally battles fatigue, sadness, and low motivation every day.

💬 Common Signs of High-Functioning Depression

People with this type of depression often:

Feel constant low mood or emptiness
Struggle with fatigue, but keep pushing through
Experience loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
Have sleep disturbances (too little or too much)
Appear “fine” to others but feel disconnected inside
Use work, exercise, or perfectionism to mask their emotions

These symptoms can last for years if left untreated, often mistaken for “just stress” or “being tired.”

👩‍⚕️ Why It Often Goes Unnoticed

Because people with high-functioning depression maintain their routines — job, studies, family — they rarely get recognized as needing help.They might even tell themselves:

“I’m not that bad. I just need to try harder.”

But depression isn’t about willpower — it’s a medical and psychological condition that deserves care, just like any other health issue.

🧠 Treatment Options: Therapy, Medication, and Support

At Vriddhi Centre for Mental Health, treatment is holistic and evidence-based.

1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy):

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps challenge negative thought patterns.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on relationship and role-related stressors.
Supportive Therapy: Builds coping skills and emotional resilience.

2. Medication:Psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressants (like SSRIs or SNRIs) to stabilize mood and energy levels.

3. Lifestyle Support:Simple changes in sleep, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness can enhance recovery when guided by a professional.

🌼 Why Seek Help in Time

Living with high-functioning depression can feel like constantly wearing a mask — exhausting, isolating, and lonely. The good news is: it’s treatable.Seeking help early can prevent symptoms from deepening and restore emotional balance.