We're having more conversations about mental health these days — and that's a good thing. But there's still one type of depression we need to talk about more: high-functioning depression.
But what exactly is high-functioning depression? Allow Alison Sutton, a psychologist at Medibank, to break it down.
"It's depression at a less intense level," she told Mamamia.
"People with it are still managing their day-to-day responsibilities and duties: they're still getting out of bed, going to work and maintaining their relationships and social commitments. But they have these underlying feelings and similar symptoms to major depression."
These people develop coping mechanisms over a long period of time. "They learn to push through the day, while masking how they really feel through things like overworking, people-pleasing or humour," she explained.
"One of the biggest challenges in diagnosing high-functioning depression is that many people don't realise they have it — and because they often don't seek help, it's hard to know how common it really is," Sutton said.
If untreated, Sutton warned that more serious issues can develop, such as sleep or fatigue issues, substance abuse or a major depressive disorder. "The person will also eventually start to struggle with emotional intimacy as they continue to mask their true thoughts and feelings," she added.
Taking the first step often means opening up — whether that's with a professional or a trusted friend or family member.
Medibank is taking on the responsibility as a leader in the mental health space, making help more accessible. Through 24/7 phone and chat support, their mental health professionals are on hand to help health insurance members with problems they shouldn't have to navigate alone.
"Depression without any support becomes unsustainable. The symptoms can worsen and can lead to burnout. Burnout can be the result of the mental and emotional exhaustion from pushing through."
To get ahead of this, these are some of the subtle signs of high-functioning depression we often miss.
"The number one sign is this sense of fatigue or low energy. There might even be statements like, 'Oh, I've just been so exhausted lately, I can't come out today'," Sutton said.
She encouraged anyone who notices a loved one is constantly tired and avoiding social interactions to gently start a conversation about what might be going on.
"Sometimes it feels too overwhelming to immediately dive into deep or vulnerable topics, but starting with something like asking about their energy levels or sleep or saying, 'Tell me more about why you're feeling exhausted lately' can open up the conversation."
"They just don't seem like themselves. You might not be able to pinpoint exactly what's off, but it could be subtle signs like wearing the same clothes or neglecting grooming — just looking a little more 'unkempt' or more tired than usual. But it doesn't have to be anything drastic," she said.
Addressing a change in appearance is something to be approached delicately. "Obviously, don't point out how exhausted or tired they appear because that's going to be taken offensively," she said.
Sutton suggested asking them to go for a walk or grab a coffee. "Find a way to connect with them first. That small step can help them feel safe enough to start opening up about what they're going through."
"The other key thing is this persistent pessimism with a flat or negative outlook. You might hear things like, 'What's the point?' or 'It's never going to change, so I can't be bothered'," she explained.
This could come in the form of self-deprecating jokes or constantly putting themselves down.
"It can be really tricky to notice this because this might be something that's built up over a really long time. You might actually just see this as someone's personality."
Sutton advised not to respond with "toxic positivity" when someone is being negative.
"The better way to do it is to not challenge the feelings or statements that are coming up. Instead, be curious, say something like, 'What's been happening lately to make you feel like that?'."
"There's often some irritability, agitation or subtle mood shifts. They might snap more easily or seem overly sensitive. It can be misread as them just being moody or on edge, but it can also be a sign of deeper emotional exhaustion," she said.
It can be hard to know how to respond to this without taking it personally.
"Try and respond with compassion and support. For instance, just say something like, 'Have you had a rough day?' rather than respond defensively to their comment. It can give both of you space to defuse the tension in the moment."
Head to Medibank's website to find out more about their mental health services.
This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any medical condition, always seek health advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Feature Image: Getty.
