Depression can be challenging to understand, and at Mount Juneau Counseling & Recovery, we get that. With excellent support here in Juneau, Alaska, we can help you navigate the process and make high-functioning depression a little easier.

What is High Functioning Depression?

Introduction to Functional Depression

What is high-functioning depression? Often referred to as dysthymia, the symptoms of high-functioning depression are more challenging to recognize since those who have it lead typical, productive lives, leading others to believe all is fine. Functional depression refers to anyone who struggles with mental health issues while still being able to accomplish everyday tasks.

Overview of High Functioning Depression (HFD)

Having depression doesn’t mean that you have isolated yourself from the world. This is why functioning depression is not always noticed in others. With this type of depression, you can still hold down a job, maintain relationships, and meet your usual obligations. Depression can cause significant impairment. However, it exists on a broad spectrum, and symptoms can vary from person to person. With high-functioning depression, it is much easier to mask symptoms.

Importance of seeking professional guidance

Even with mild symptoms, seeking professional guidance is essential. Our professionals are dedicated to providing compassionate, confidential, and evidence-based care. The first step is getting the proper diagnosis, and we can help with just that. Professional treatment helps resolve symptoms even when they are not obvious and gets you on the path to a better quality of life.

Symptoms and Coping Strategies for Functional Depression

Common Symptoms of Functional Depression: With functional depression, you may find yourself feeling irritable, guilty, or sad. You may also have fatigue and low energy, problems sleeping, and a loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. With this type of depression, you may also have trouble making decisions and concentrating. Changes in appetite that lead to sudden weight gain or loss are common, and sometimes, thoughts of suicide or death are other symptoms of HFD.
Coping Mechanisms for Managing Functional Depression: If you have symptoms, you should always keep in mind that there are coping mechanisms for managing HFD. Always practice mindfulness and be fully present in the moment without judgment. Deep breathing and meditation can be extremely helpful. You’ll also benefit from finding an exercise you enjoy and making it a part of your routine. A power walk around the neighborhood, a yoga class, or even time at the gym is wonderful. Finally, establishing meaningful relationships is one of the best things for managing symptoms of HFD. Support groups are available to join, where you can talk about your feelings and experiences. Confiding in a trusted friend or family member is also a great idea.
Importance of self-care and healthy coping strategies: When you have HFD, self-care and healthy coping strategies are extremely important. This can help you learn how to manage your symptoms regularly and improve your well-being and quality of life. With high-functioning depression, you’ll find that utilizing healthy coping strategies will give you a wonderful sense of well-being.

Fostering Mental Well-being with Functional Depression

Creating a supportive and understanding environment: It is vital to surround yourself with those who support and understand what you are feeling. Creating an environment where you can have open conversations and self-compassion is strongly encouraged. Educate your friends and family about high-functioning depression so that they can better understand what you are experiencing and support you along the way.

Setting realistic goals and expectations: Finally, always make sure your goals and expectations are realistic. Remember that coping with high-functioning depression takes time, and symptoms won’t disappear overnight. Finding what works best for you takes time, so don’t rush the process.

Effective Strategies and Resources for High Functioning Depression: Mount Juneau Counseling & Recovery

At Mount Juneau Counseling & Recovery, we are dedicated to helping you find strategies for feeling your best and living your life to the fullest. No matter where you are in the process of managing high-functioning depression, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us online or call us at 907-980-3044.

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