I make my bed every morning. I make sure to complete my homework, study for exams, and always complete my assignments. I try to have a social life. Have a conversation or go out with friends. Does this mean I’m okay?
Based on what I have stated above, quite a few people would not think that I am an individual who suffers from anxiety or depression. Symptoms of these mental illnesses often include an inability to get out of bed, an inability to concentrate at school, an inability to participate in social life, and a feeling of lethargy. While these are all valid and real symptoms, they are not the only symptoms that depression can have. It is possible to struggle with mental illness while managing your responsibilities and maintaining a daily routine, but that does not make what you are dealing with any less serious or important.
I have always been a “pull through it” person when it comes to mental illness. My struggles have never affected my academic performance or my overall lifestyle. But they were very there and real. There were days when I wanted to give up and days when the anxiety almost became unbearable, but I always downplayed it because from the outside I looked perfectly fine. You would have a hard time believing that I was struggling unless I admitted it, but I’ve always been reluctant to admit it.
For people with high-functioning anxiety or depression, it’s like gaslighting yourself if your anxiety is motivating you to not back down on your responsibilities.. You convince yourself that stress is a “need” and that depression is just an inconvenient addition that others cannot see.
We want to spread awareness about this form of mental illness because it is so hidden. It’s hard to get diagnosed, hard to talk about yourself, and hard to get noticed because it’s not the typical picture of mental illness. Because of this, people suffer in isolation and silence for a long time before they muster up the courage to ask for help, sometimes until they reach a breaking point and have no other choice.
“High-functioning depression” is not even a medical term, it’s a colloquial term. gained popularity After former Miss USA North Carolina attorney Chesley Crist committed suicide on January 30, 2022 at the age of 30, the nation was shocked to hear of this successful woman’s suicide. Because her mental health battle was never obvious. No one would have thought that someone like her could suffer so severely, and many mental health professionals use the term “high-functioning depression” to downplay the severity of cases like Chelsea Christ’s. I think we should stop using the term “. It is important to recognize that these forms of depression and anxiety exist in an empathetic way that makes them less difficult for the individual experiencing it. While this phrase may be helpful to those who feel that way but are unaware of it, its social connotations can be harmful.
Symptoms of depression and anxiety vary from person to person. 32.3% Eight adults in the United States report having symptoms of depression or anxiety, but their experiences are by no means universal. People who suffer from high-functioning depression and anxiety often have Type A personalities, which makes them very hard-working and hard-working, and can constantly feel like, race against time. There’s nothing wrong with this personality, but it generally comes with high stress levels and fear of failure. Therefore, they fear that if they voice their mental health issues, they will be left behind. Just like those on the other end of the spectrum with mental health, those who are silently struggling need help as well.
Of course, I’m not going to just say that this type of depression exists without suggesting how you can help your friends, partners, and family members who may be suffering in silence. It is very important to let them know that if they want to talk, you are there to listen. Proposing solutions right away often feels confrontational. Instead, make them aware that you are a safe place. It’s also important to pay attention to what they enjoy and try to involve them in those activities. There are many resources and organizations online. Project Healthy Mindprovide assistance to those in need.
Never minimize what you or your loved one may be going through. Just because you can function and your behavior doesn’t quite fit the textbook definition of depression or anxiety doesn’t mean you’re completely okay and it’s okay to ask for help. It’s never a sign of weakness, it’s just a sign of strength.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a suicidal crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 immediately.
Grace Harris is passionate about social justice and advocacy. In her email, she is always open to further ideas — [email protected]