Talking About High-Functioning Depression

Antidepressant ads often paint the same picture: withdrawal from friends or activities, trouble sleeping, and crying. While those are signs, there are many faces of depression. It looks like your colleague who just got promoted or your friend who just got engaged. But because there is a stigma associated with mental health, many keep their sadness hidden and sometimes no one knows anything is wrong.

Someone with high-functioning depression may seem to have it all together on the outside, but they are extremely sad on the inside. Many of these people are striving for perfection - limiting themselves from seeking help.

According to the World Health Organization, depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. This takes into account things like days lost from work, not being up to doing daily activities, and the potential of other illnesses like diabetes.

So how do you talk to a friend, family member or colleague you believe is masking their depression? Simply ask if they're ok, pointing out they haven't been themselves lately. Just being there to listen and ask what they need could make a huge difference.