What’s the difference, or is there one, between Perfectly Hidden Depression and what’s called high-functioning depression? I’m particularly motivated – in fact very sadly motivated – to talk about it because of an email I received this week from a woman whose husband killed himself. He was in his early 40’s. And no one could believe it. He had a perfect-looking life. Children he loved, a career he felt excited about, friends and family that loved him. Yet he couldn’t communicate his darker emotions, emotions that would lead him to suicide.
I was interviewed as well this week by a Canadian writer who asked me to distinguish for her the difference between what’s been called high-functioning depression and PHD. So this episode is doing just that. We’ll talk about the difference – and why that difference matters. In fact, why that difference has to be understood. You’ll find several articles on high functioning depression in the show notes.
There are three different groups of those who identify with PHD. There are those that say, “I’m hiding and I know it…”, and those that say, “I know something’s wrong. I feel it in my gut. But I haven’t a clue what it is.” And then there’s one other — those that might say,”Sometimes I know I’m hiding. But other times, I can’t figure out what’s going on.”
The listener email will feature the woman who wrote me about the sudden suicide of her husband, and I’ll answer her questions concerning where to go from where she is.
Important links:
Articles on high-functioning depression:
Author and food writer David “Avocado” Wolfe
Millennial free lance writer Shin Hye on The Huffington Post
Counselor Annie Wright on The Mighty.
You can hear more about mental health and many other topics by listening to my podcast, SelfWork with Dr. Margaret Rutherford. Subscribe to my website and receive one weekly newsletter including my weekly blog post and podcast! If you’d like to join my FaceBook closed group, then click here and answer the membership questions! Welcome!
My new book entitled Perfectly Hidden Depression has arrived and you can order here! Its message is specifically for those with a struggle with strong perfectionism which acts to mask underlying emotional pain. But the many self-help techniques described can be used by everyone who chooses to begin to address emotions long hidden away that are clouding and sabotaging your current life.
And there’s a new way to send me a message! You can record by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You’ll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you’re giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I’ll look forward to hearing from you!
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