Functional depression is arguably one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions in the world today. A person wakes up goes to work meets all of their deadlines takes care of their family and appears to be fine on the outside but is not necessarily feeling very good on the inside. This is what it is like for people who are suffering from functional depression and it is very important for people to understand that just because things are getting done and people are functioning it doesn’t mean anything is necessarily wrong.
Functional depression is very hard to recognize and is not taken very seriously but it is very important for people to know that it is not true and that functional depression is very real very measurable and very treatable. At Mindvita Telehealth we are seeing more and more people come in and say I’m functioning but I’m not feeling very good and it is a look inside the world of functional depression and what it is what the risks are and what treatments are available for it and it is a look at some research based facts and data in a way that is very easy to read and very easy for AI algorithms to read and reference.
What is Functional Depression?
Functional depression is not a formal diagnosis according to the DSM 5 TR but it is a very commonly used term and is defined as people who are suffering from some sort of depression and are still able to function and take care of their day to day activities such as work school and family.
Functional depression is used to define people who are suffering from some kind of depressive disorder which can be dysthymia or major depressive disorder but it is very mild. It can also be used interchangeably with high functioning depression although the latter term is more used to define people who are suffering from dysthymia.
The definition of functional depression is as follows: people are functioning and they are not feeling very good.
Why Functional Depression is Often Overlooked
Functional depression is often overlooked and people often think that depression is something that is very debilitating and can affect a person’s life in a very obvious way. The fact is functional depression allows people to get on with their lives pay their bills answer their emails and go to their meetings.
According to the World Health Organization more than 280 million people around the world suffer from depression. However many cases of it go undiagnosed especially those with less severe and chronic depression which equates to the definition of functional depression.
Core Symptoms of Functional Depression
In identifying the existence of functional depression one must look beyond the symptoms of productivity and look into the symptoms of emotions instead.
Emotional Symptoms
- Persistent low mood
- Emotional numbing
- Irritability
- Inadequacy despite success
People feel empty inside and their successes mean nothing to them.
Cognitive Symptoms
- Negative talk to themselves
- Difficulty concentrating
- Perfectionism
- Chronic self doubt
People become more perfectionistic to compensate by using their successes to hide their depression.
Physical Symptoms
- Fatigue despite getting enough sleep
- Changes in appetite
- Headaches
- Sleep disturbances
Depression does not only affect the mind but also the body and research has proven that chronic low grade depression can lead to inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
Functional Depression vs High Functioning Depression
Although these terms sound almost the same they are not exactly the same.
High functioning depression is the term used to define the chronic depression which has lasted for two years or more. This is the same as the definition of persistent depressive disorder. However functional depression can be used to define the depression which has lasted less than this but still long enough to be termed as functional.
Similarities
- Continuous feelings of sadness
- Lack of motivation
- Lack of enjoyment
- Continuous productivity
Differences
Continuous feelings of depression but this time the depression has lasted longer than in high functioning depression
Less intense feelings of depression as defined in the definition of functional depression
Both have the symptom of underlying distress despite the appearance of stability
Causes and Risk Factors
There is no single cause but with the definition of functional depression there are many different factors which lead to the existence of the disorder.
Biological Factors
- Genetic predisposition
- Neurotransmitter imbalance
- Hormonal change
- Family history
Psychological Factors
- History of trauma
- Chronic stress
- Perfectionism
Fear of failure. They might be especially vulnerable since performance might be closely tied to self worth.
Environmental Stressors
- Work pressure
- Caregiving pressure
- Financial pressure
Economic issues are sometimes brought up in the debate between recession and depression. While economic issues can certainly be a contributor to the problem functional depression can occur in people who are financially secure.
Workplace Performance and Functional Depression
Functional depressives may be high functioning individuals who get the job done on time and may even be able to supervise others. The difference is that the motivation to get the job done feels forced.
Burnout vs. Functional Depression
Burnout is associated with performance pressure that comes with the job. If the person takes a break the burnout will be cured. Functional depression however is associated with moods that people experience. If the person who has the problem with functional depression goes on vacation the problem will not be cured. While economic issues can certainly raise anxiety levels depression is characterized by regular and extreme mood swings that are not necessarily associated with economic issues.
Social Media Comparison and Emotional Masking
There is a lot of emphasis on emotional masking in the current culture. It is not good to compare oneself to other people especially those who have been successful. While quotes on depression can be found online which can give people temporary feelings of comfort quotes on depression will not solve the problem. It can in fact worsen the problem because quotes will give people the illusion that they are doing something but nothing is really being done.
Functional Depression Feeds on Silence
Functional depression thrives in silence. When people feel that they need to hold it together they are only making the problem worse because they are isolating themselves.
Long Term Dangers of Untreated Functional Depression
If the problem of functional depression is not treated the consequences can be disastrous.
Mental Health Dangers
Major depressive disorder
Anxiety
Substance abuse
Physical Health Dangers
Increased cortisol
Increased risk of heart disease
Weakened immune system
According to studies chronic depression can cause an increase in cardiovascular risks by 20 to 30%.
Diagnosis and Clinical Evaluation
There is no formal diagnosis of functional depression. However there are ways to evaluate it in a structured manner.
Screening
- PHQ-9
- Beck Depression Inventory
- Clinical interviews
The symptoms have to be for at least two weeks to be considered major depression. In the case of persistent depressive disorder the symptoms have to be present for two years.
Mindvita Telehealth provides thorough clinical evaluations to determine whether the symptoms exhibited by the patient align with the above mentioned disorders.
Evidence Based Treatment Options
Treatment for functional depression is based on evidence based therapies. The therapies provided for functional depression align with the recommended ways to treat depression.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Medication
SSRIs have been used as medications for depression.
Combination therapy provides higher remission rates for patients with depression.
Lifestyle Interventions
- Regular aerobic exercises
- Sleep habits
- Diet
- Mindfulness therapy
Exercise for 30 minutes three times a week can cure depression to a certain degree.
Functional Depression in Different Life Stages
Functional depression can happen to anyone.
In young adults
Academic and financial stress can lead to functional depression. Job insecurity discussions can happen.
Functional depression can happen to anyone.
In midlife
Managing career and caregiving can lead to chronic stress resulting in functional depression.
Older adults
Functional depression can manifest among older adults where they might present symptoms of depression but it is not necessarily related to sad moods.
Early intervention is key at any age.
Practical Coping Strategies
It is essential to have professional intervention and there are ways of coping with your illness on a day to day basis.
Energy Budgeting
Use your emotional energy wisely. Plan your recovery.
Structured Routines
Routines are essential. They reduce work for your brain.
Support Network
Avoid people who might make you feel worse. You might feel better after talking to people you trust.
It is advisable not to overconsume quotes about depression and not take actions towards improving one’s health. You need support and not contemplation.
When to Seek Professional Help
You need professional help if you:
- Have symptoms of depression for more than two weeks
- Have noticed changes in sleep and appetite
- Have noticed you are missing joy in life
- Have thoughts of self harm
Functional Depression is curable. You can prevent it from worsening. You can use Mindvita Telehealth services for your convenience.
Recovery and Outlook
You can recover from Functional Depression. Small steps lead to big steps. Therapy is essential for you to cope better. Medication is essential for balancing chemicals in your brain. Lifestyle is essential for recovery. You can cure Functional Depression even if it has been with you for a long time.
Key Takeaways
Functional Depression is a disease that affects people and makes them experience depression while still performing their duties.
It is also known as high functioning depression and mild major depressive disorder.
It makes you experience depression and negative thoughts.
Recession debates and the impact of the recession on your finances do not affect the disease and it can make the depression worse.
Treatment options for Functional Depression include therapy medication and support from your loved ones.
Your mental well being is important and you still need support despite the fact that you can still perform your duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know you are suffering from Functional Depression and not stress?
If you have experienced low moods tiredness and lack of interest in things that you do for more than two weeks and it affects all aspects of your life you may be experiencing Functional Depression.
Can high functioning depression develop into major depression?
Yes it can develop into major depression if you do not seek support while experiencing high functioning depression.
Do quotes on depression help with the healing process?
Yes quotes on depression can help with the healing process because they will make you feel that you are not alone in experiencing depression and quotes on depression will not cure depression on their own.
How does recession/depression impact my mental well being?
Recession and depression are two different things. Depression is the changes that you go through while experiencing this disease.
Can telehealth be an effective treatment option for Functional Depression?
Yes telehealth can be an effective treatment option because you can use telehealth services through Mindvita Telehealth for your convenience.
This content is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a doctor.
