What is Functioning Depression? Ways to Mention Symptoms

You show up for work every day. You pay your bills and take the kids to their extracurricular activities. You do your share of the household duties. However, in the evenings, you sit on the bed and feel the pervasive sadness that seems to overshadow you. You know you have depression, but you also know that no matter how you feel, you must push through. Functioning depression makes us realize that not everyone experiences depression the same way.

What is functioning depression?

Although functioning depression is not a mental condition with a clinical diagnosis, the term describes people who struggle with depression but still manage their responsibilities. This type of depression is almost hidden from the outside world. Yet, the person may feel like they are treading water, doing their best to keep their head up.

People with functioning depression may still have the same thoughts and symptoms as others with clinical depression. They may:

• Lose interest in things that once brought them joy.
• Stop socializing outside of required situations, like work or church.
• Feel a persistent sadness or emptiness.
• Feel fatigued.
• Sleep too much or too little when not required to be somewhere.
• Experience appetite changes.
• Have negative thoughts, suicidal ideations, or self-harm.

People with functioning depression should seek help from a counselor. Psychological methods, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and talk therapy, are effective for overcoming the symptoms of depression. You can also make a few lifestyle changes to boost your mood.

Ways to manage depression symptoms

There are a few strategies you can try to manage your depression symptoms. You may want to create a routine to incorporate each and track your new habits. Try just one new strategy initially, and when you feel confident, add another. Allow yourself time to adjust.

Rediscover favorite hobbies and interests

You may not feel like doing anything that is not required of you, but rediscovering your favorite hobbies and interests can reenergize your soul. Even just spending fifteen minutes reading a good book or listening to a playlist could be what you need. Praising and worshipping God when you feel down is another way to get back to feeling joy. He has a way of turning sorrow into joy.

Get outside

Fresh air and exercise are an excellent combo for reducing stress and boosting mood. Exercise forces you to breathe deeply while the brain releases endorphins to make you happy. A brisk walk a few days a week may bolster your spirit. Pair your walk outdoors with great music to get your heart pumping.

Journal

You may not realize why you feel depressed. Journaling is an effective way to identify and analyze your thoughts and emotions. You can also use your journal to set daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Goal setting and taking the necessary steps to reach your goals give you something to look forward to daily. The journal is a great place to record what you are grateful for at the end of the day.

Do you struggle with functioning depression?

Do you struggle with the symptoms of functioning depression? Reach out to our office today to schedule a session with a Christian counselor. Your counselor will combine their knowledge of depression treatments with faith-based principles to help you overcome the symptoms and draw closer to Christ. Contact us today to get started.