Is It Possible to Have Functional Depression?

Functional Depression happens! Although functional depression is not in the DSM, it is very real and happens to anyone. Functional depression often goes unnoticed or ignored because we are “functioning”. If you are experiencing low mood, lack of motivation or feeling stuck, it may be a symptom of functional depression.

Functional depression impacts our focus, work production, relationships, physical and mental health and hygiene / daily living.

"It could be a life transition, seasonally based, chemistry-based, or something else. A professional will help to make that assessment and work with you to build your own unique tool kit of strategies," she (Sangmeister) says. 

Many parents, single moms, high achieving professionals, CEOs, and entrepreneurs have Functional Depression as they feel that they have little choice than to keep pushing through and going. They may feel like each day is a sprint and that they are on a hamster wheel. Overwhelm, frustration, brain fog, fatigue, addictions, unhealthy eating and/or exercise are some factors in functional depression. Parents, single moms, and those high achievers fear that they can not stop until they “crash”. That if they stop they won’t be successful or that the depression will consume them. The opposite is true. By focusing on your functional or seasonal depression, you will be able to move into a place that is grounded, content, joyful and focused.

To read more about functional depression and what I have to say on the topic, head to the article linked below.

If you feel that you are struggling with functional depression, we can work together to assess, change behaviors, and build strategies.