What does it mean to have high functioning depression?
Depression is not a “state of mind” or attitude problem that can be changed by simply “thinking more positively”. These are unfortunate misconceptions that perpetuate stigma which can lead to hiding the severity of symptoms and not seeking help. Depression is a medical condition that includes biological, chemical and medical factors.
Many people who suffer from Depression are considered “high functioning” and will continue to achieve and perform at high levels and may go to great lengths to hide their symptoms. Often, the symptoms of Major Depression will make day to day functioning nearly impossible and these changes are noticeable to others. Many people though can experience these same symptoms with slightly less severity and maintain day to day functioning, so their depression is not as noticeable. It is important to realize that even when able to maintain functioning, people are suffering, and symptoms should not be minimized. A therapist can help to sort out the symptoms and factors of depression in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop a plan for treatment.
September is Suicide Prevention Month – which aims to create hope through action by creating safe spaces for those struggling with the goal of preventing suicide all together. The issue is far reaching. Nearly 46,000 individuals died by suicide in 2020, and 46% of those people had a known mental health condition. Although mental health issues and illnesses, like depression, can lead to suicide, there are many reasons someone may decide to take their own life. However, most people believe that suicide can be prevented.
This year, WABA’s emphasis for World Breastfeeding Week is on strengthening the capacity of actors that protect, promote and support breastfeeding across different levels of society including governments, health systems, workplaces and communities to provide and sustain breastfeeding-friendly environments for families in the post-pandemic world. According to WABA, breastfeeding can assist with sustainable development strategies post-pandemic, as it can improve nutrition, ensure food security, and reduce inequalities between and within countries.
Depression is more than "feeling down" or " feeling blue." When you’re depressed, you may find it hard to simply "let go" or "snap out of it." Depression is very common.
If you've never had an online psychiatry visit before, you might have some questions about how the process works. Dr. Churi, Amwell’s staff psychiatrist, shares answers and helpful information about telepsychiatry.
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