Online Therapy for High Functioning Depression
Am I just sad, Or am I depressed?
What is High Functioning Depression?
"High functioning depression” is a term often seen on social media in the recent years, even though it is not an official diagnosis in the medical world. Some have equated this to dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder), however, this term simply encapsulates the idea that some people experiences symptoms of depression with minimal impact in their social or occupational functioning.
Some of these people might even cope so well with their depression that their friends and family are often caught off guard when they hear about their depression. As a result, those who suffer from high functioning depression often feel invalidated in their experience, or even feel pressured to maintain a façade of being “okay”.
What is therapy like for high functioning depression?
When you come in for therapy, we will begin by building on your strengths to find the best way to cope with your depression. We will then work through your past experiences to find the root cause for your depression, and examine what is holding you back, such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, fear of intimate relationships, etc.. As we get to know one another better, I will also point out patterns in your life that no longer serves you and help you figure out how to let go of them.
Will I ever get better?
Though this group of people might remain unrecognized in the medical model and with their loved ones, the pain and isolation they experience is definitely real. If you suffer from high functioning depression, I want you to know there is hope. Life can look different without this weight on your shoulder and you can learn to experience joy again. Through working with a psychologist, you will understand your unique situation leading to your depression, and gain insight and skills that you would need to walk out of the heaviness you are experiencing.