High-functioning depression can feel like an invisible condition. This means that even though someone may appear to be leading a successful and productive life, they may still struggle with depressive symptoms on a daily basis. The pressure to always appear happy and put together can make it difficult for those with high-functioning depression to ask for help or open up about their struggles. Call True Life Center today at 866.420.1792 to learn how our depression treatment in California can help you or a loved one thrive.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and difficulty performing daily tasks. It affects an individual’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, and overall health, often leading to emotional and physical issues. Depression is not a sign of weak character and cannot be overcome through willpower alone. It is a complex condition that requires professional help and support.
Types of Depression
There are several types of depression. Each type has its unique symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches.
Major Depressive Disorder
This type of depression is also known as clinical depression or major depression. It is a severe form of the condition that can affect daily life and cause significant distress. Symptoms may include feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
This type of depression is a chronic form of the condition, lasting for two years or more. It is characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness that can be less severe than major depression but lasts longer. People with persistent depressive disorder may also experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns, low energy levels, and difficulty making decisions.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
This type of depression occurs during specific seasons, typically in the fall or winter when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms may include low energy levels, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and feelings of hopelessness and sadness.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that affects women after giving birth. It can range from mild to severe and can interfere with a new mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These shifts can occur over weeks or even months and can be accompanied by periods of depression.
High-Functioning Depression
High-functioning depression is a type of depression where individuals may appear to be successful and functioning well in their daily lives but still struggle with depressive symptoms. This can make it challenging to recognize, as the person may not fit the stereotypical image of someone with depression.
Understanding High-Functioning Depression
High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression where individuals can maintain their everyday responsibilities but often feel unhappy or dissatisfied with life. They might appear perfectly fine on the outside, maintaining a job, relationships, and social activities. Yet, internally, they struggle with persistent feelings of sadness, self-criticism, and a lack of enthusiasm.
Signs of High-Functioning Depression
Signs of high-functioning depression can be subtle and may include:
- Feelings of sadness that persist for two years or more
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- A lack of joy in activities that were once enjoyable
Because these individuals can carry on with their daily lives, it can be challenging to recognize these signs.
Causes of High-Functioning Depression
The causes of high-functioning depression can vary widely, often involving a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. These may include a family history of depression, significant life changes, traumatic experiences, and certain physical illnesses and medications.
For some, the desire for success and perfectionism can also contribute to high-functioning depression, as individuals may constantly push themselves to meet unrealistic expectations.
Treatment Options
At True Life Center, we offer an integrative approach to treating high-functioning depression. Our team of doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and holistic providers collaborate to customize an individualized treatment program for each patient.
Our services include an intensive outpatient program (IOP), partial hospitalization program (PHP), trauma-focused treatment, panic disorder treatment, anxiety treatment, PTSD treatment, and more. We also offer diverse therapeutic modalities such as pet therapy, art therapy, exercise therapy, somatic experiencing, and acupuncture.
Call True Life Center’s Depression Treatment in California Now
Located in San Diego, California, True Life Center is not just a treatment center; it is a luxury office designed with calming and soothing aesthetics to make you feel comfortable and at peace during your recovery journey. Contact us today online or call 866.420.1792 to take the first step towards a healthier, happier future.
