Some people use the term high-functioning depression as a form of persistent depressive disorder (PPD); however, high depression symptoms are different and are neither a diagnosis nor a clinical disorder, and many mental healthcare professionals also disagree with the use of such a term. People with high depressive disorder can lead a normal life. They can balance their relationships and work with it because no certain diagnostic signs and symptoms are involved with this condition. People with persistent depressive disorder experience lengthy instances of depression with periods of normal mood for a minimum of 2 years. It is important to study the different forms of depression by ascertaining its signs and symptoms to treat the condition at the earliest.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of High-Functioning Depression
Many studies on depression have reported that high-functioning depression is not a disorder, and there are no objective clinical symptoms for this term. However, many people confuse high-functioning depression symptoms with PPD, which involves low-grade symptoms related to depression that persist for at least two years. A person with PPD may experience low mood as well as two of the symptoms listed below.
Our digestive systems and brains are strongly connected, so when you feel depressed or deal with the physical side effects of depression, it can lead to loss of appetite, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, etc.
People dealing with depression may face sleep problems, including insomnia or sleeping too much, as it can affect the body as well as the mind due to changes in neurotransmitters and brain functions.
Lack of energy and fatigue may be linked to dysfunction in the release of neurotransmitters from the brain affecting norepinephrine or dopamine levels in the blood, which result from a person taking antidepressant medications like tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It is always advisable to talk to your healthcare provider to make changes in your drug regime.
People living with depression may experience a lack of self-confidence and may find difficulty in communicating with people due to changes in brain activity.
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Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Depression can cause difficulty in concentrating on important tasks, and a person may feel confused most of the time in making decisions on their own.
If a person has high depressive symptoms, he/she should see a doctor, protect oneself from the immediate danger of self-harm, and contact an available emergency helpline dealing with depressive disorder patients. It is wise to buy a health insurance policy to cover the essential costs to meet the expenses for frequent health check-ups while coping with this condition.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.