Years ago, I was “living life” just like anyone else — work, friends, career & personal aspirations. But deep inside, I was like the walking dead. I didn’t know I was suffering from high-functioning depression. You’ll be surprised to know how easily high-functioning depression can blend in with a seemingly happy, everyday life.
In this list, I will share with you 10 everyday habits that could tell you if high-functioning depression is creeping up on you.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels.
You’re Always Tired, But Still Going Through the Routine

You’re groggy in the morning, your day goes by on autopilot mode. You wake up, live your day, go to sleep & repeat. Even though you manage to get through it, the constant exhaustion feels like a motor running nonstop.
You Overcommit to Keep Yourself Distracted

Your calendar is filled up with meetings, projects & social events, but it’s not because you like to be busy. Instead, you fill your calendar to avoid having to face feelings of hollowness. The busyness becomes a defense to cover up whatever depression you’re avoiding.
You Downplay or Hide Your Struggles

When they ask you how you are, you just smile & say, “I’m OK,” even when you are not. You might tell yourself that your feelings are not real or worth sharing. This inability to acknowledge your feelings is another signal of high-functioning depression, as it lives in the shadows.
You Struggle to Find Joy in Things You Used to Love

You used to enjoy hiking, painting or reading, but they’re just plain boring now. You still do them now & then to keep the facade of normalcy up, but the spark isn’t there & you are detached.
You’re Hyper-Critical of Yourself

Whatever you achieve, it’s never enough. You might find yourself worrying too much about small mistakes you make or feeling that you’re always underachieving. This constant self-criticism often hints high-functioning depression.
You’re Emotionally Numb or Detached

Instead of feeling intensely sad, you feel “nothing”. You have your feelings off & you’re just getting through the motions. This numbness can make bonds & mundane interactions feel unimportant even when you wish to engage with them.
You Feel Physical Pains For No Reason At All

Suffering from high-functioning depression, you might experience random headaches, stomachaches, or even muscle tension without a clear cause. These symptoms are your body’s way of releasing the stress & sadness you’ve been unknowingly holding inside your mind.
You Withdraw Socially in Subtle Ways

You go out & make friends but might refrain from more in-depth conversations or cut interactions short. You focus on keeping things surface-level & still feel lonely even when you’re around others.
You Feel Overwhelmed by Simple Tasks

Things you do every day, whether that’s watering the flower beds or preparing dinner, can feel like a challenge now. Even when you do finish them, you’re left exhausted & frustrated.
You Fake Positivity

You make a great fake face & pretend optimistic. This cloak is how you avoid other people’s questions, and yet deep down, you’re feeling lost.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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