Hidden Signs You May Be Dealing With High-Functioning Depression
You may be feeling like things are going well in your life.
You are able to get up in the morning and go to work. You can get things done that are on your checklist for the day without too much struggle. But at the same time, you are feeling like there is something missing. There is this sadness underneath most things even though you can’t put your finger on why that could be. Things seem to be going your way you are successful in your career and life so what could be going on?
If you can relate to what has been said it is possible that you could be handling life and getting through things with a form of depression. This depression may not be severe, but it is sneaky and gets in the way of how you would like to live your life. But there is hope and there is treatment that can help with this. Keep reading to learn more.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Persistent depressive disorder or (PDD) is not as severe as a major depressive disorder. Individuals who have PDD may find it more difficult to be happy during certain fun activities. It can present itself also as avoiding social activities, feelings of guilt or worrying over the past. Trouble focusing or making clear decisions on things can also be an indicator of this. The symptoms of this can last in a person for at least two years and could feel like you are still able to function and do certain tasks but have underlying feelings associated with it. This blog isn’t meant to diagnose. If you think that you could have PDD its best to talk to a mental health professional to get a formal diagnosis.
Alcohol/other substance use in addition to symptoms
Alcohol and activities that involve alcohol are in many different social settings and involved with social activities. It can be hard to identify if alcohol is being used as a way to cope due to how normalized it is in America. If you find yourself using alcohol as a way to numb feelings or emotions that may indicate that you are trying to cope with depression symptoms with it. An increase in drinking can also indicate that as well. Alcohol has also been linked to an increase in depression symptoms. Although people drink alcohol sometimes to cope with depression, it also can contribute to negative symptoms of depression.
How to manage symptoms
Symptoms in different types of depression are best to initially be discussed with a primary care provider or a mental health counselor. A professional will be able to define the best route of treatment. Some small changes can also make a huge impact on how to start feeling better from depression.
Depression can make individuals feel differences in appetite. If you experience difficulties in the ability to incorporate meals try to incorporate snacks of smaller amounts of food throughout the day so that you are still eating and able to maintain energy levels.
Incorporate at least 30-60 minutes of exercise into your daily routine. Keeping your body moving helps to combat depression.
Make sure that you are getting enough sleep at night by going to bed at a reasonable time. Create an environment that makes sleep more easily accessible. This might include getting a white noise machine, eye masks, or an essential oil diffuser.
Have at least one person that you can call often to help you process and discuss things that you are going through. Having social support is important it’s not about quantity but quality in your support system.
Begin Working With A Depression Therapist in Charlotte, NC
You don’t have to struggle with your depressive symptoms alone. Finding the best way to manage them can take time, but that is why we are here to help. Our team of caring therapists would be happy to help you cope with depression symptoms from our Charlotte, NC-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Fill out our contact form
Meet with a caring therapist
Start dealing with depression in a healthier way!
Other Services Offered With Inward Counseling
Depression therapy isn’t the only mental health support Inward Counseling offers. Our team understands you may experience more than one mental health concern, which is why we are happy to also offer therapy for anxiety, couples, family, and EMDR. We also offer trauma therapy and Christian counseling. Visit our blog or about page to learn more today.