Editor
Adam Zagha
Clinically Reviewed by
Joni Ogle, LCSW, CSAT
Updated on
May 3, 2023
High-functioning depression is a relatively new condition that has surfaced lately. And most likely, you won't find a clear definition listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. However, many health professionals have acknowledged it because it is easily understandable, as more people relate to it while not fitting traditional diagnostic categories.
One certainty about this condition is that people who mostly have it suffer from a persistent depressive disorder. It's a low-grade depression or "low mood," so to speak, that displays noticeable lagging energy or fatigue.
As it is quite complex to make a proper diagnosis, a person should first be able to distinguish between depression versus sadness. This will better help them understand their situation and the mental illness that they are experiencing and whether therapy or counseling would suffice to help them get better.
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