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7 Signs Someone Has High-Functioning Depression, According to a Therapist

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By Amber Roman

Feb 10, 2024, 10:00 AM EST

In a world where pressure to stay on top seems to be the norm, A licensed therapist has issued an important warning about high-functioning depression.a condition that can go unnoticed while carrying out daily tasks.

Jeffrey Meltzer, 29, a Florida resident and licensed therapist, has broken down the seven key signs that could indicate the presence of this form of depression.

With more than 126,000 followers on TikTok, Meltzer, known as @therapytothepoint, has used his platform to raise awareness about mental health, discussing topics ranging from anxiety to narcissistic personality disorder. Recently, a video in which she explains the symptoms of high-functioning depression went viral, sparking an urgent conversation on the topic.

According to Meltzer, One of the main signs of this form of depression is the tendency to “wear a mask” to hide internal pain. Often, people experiencing high-functioning depression can appear completely functional from the outside, while silently struggling with feelings of emptiness and numbness.

“Constant exhaustion” is also a common indicator, Meltzer explained. Despite constant efforts, Those affected by this form of depression often feel a persistent lack of energywhich can lead to an overwhelming feeling of helplessness.

Habits linked to depression

Meltzer also highlighted the tendency to resort to “numbing habits” as a way to cope with feelings of emptiness. These behaviors may include excessive social media use, unhealthy eating, and excessive video game consumption, and may coincide with a loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed.

“Persistent self-criticism” is another key sign of high-functioning depression, according to Meltzer. Affected people tend to be extremely hard on themselves, finding it difficult to forgive themselves for even minor mistakes.

Furthermore, Meltzer warned of the danger of “small irritations becoming major triggers”, which can reinforce the belief that one is not enough. This cycle can lead to a downward spiral where even the smallest setbacks feel overwhelming.

Finally, Meltzer noted that social isolation can also be a worrying sign of high-functioning depression. Withdrawing from friends and family can further worsen the affected person’s emotional state, creating a cycle of loneliness and despair.

Since the video went viral, it has generated a wave of responses from people who identify with the symptoms described by Meltzer. Many have expressed their gratitude for shedding light on an often overlooked condition, while others have shared their own personal experiences with high-functioning depression.

As a last resort, Meltzer hopes that by recognizing and understanding these signs, more people will seek the help and support they need to address their mental health. The conversation around high-functioning depression is a crucial step toward greater awareness and understanding of the complexities of mental health in today’s society.

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