Living Beneath The Surface – Understanding And Overcoming High-Functioning Depression
- Brainz Magazine
- Dec 10, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 7
Nadija is a multi-award-winning trauma and empowerment specialist with a double diploma in hypnotherapy, mind coaching, and online therapy. She is also a Reiki master and a grief educator, and she has been trained by an international grief specialist and best-selling author, David Kessler. Nadija is also an end-of-life doula.
In today’s fast-paced, achievement-driven world, many of us strive to excel, projecting an image of strength, success, and control. But what happens when this outward competence masks an inner battle and struggle? For many, this is the reality of high-functioning depression—a condition that often hides in plain sight. In this article, we will talk about high-functioning depression, its common symptoms, and how hypnosis can serve as a transformative tool for healing and reclaiming your inner power.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson
What is high-functioning depression?
High-functioning depression is not an official clinical diagnosis, but rather a term often used to describe people who outwardly maintain their responsibilities while privately struggling with persistent depressive symptoms. Officially, it may fall under the umbrella of dysthymia, or persistent depressive disorder (PDD), a condition characterized by a low mood that lingers for at least two years.
Unlike major depression, individuals with high-functioning depression often maintain a facade of productivity. They succeed in their careers, manage social obligations, and seem “fine” to the outside world. Yet, beneath this veneer, they often struggle with a profound sense of emptiness, fatigue, and even self-doubt.
What makes high-functioning depression particularly insidious is its subtlety. Because the person appears to be functioning well, their struggles may go unnoticed by loved ones, colleagues, and even themselves. This lack of recognition can delay the pursuit of help, leaving many to suffer in silence.
Recognizing the symptoms
High-functioning depression does not shout; it whispers. This often makes it hard to recognize, even for those experiencing it. However, becoming aware of its signs is the first step toward empowerment and healing.
Most common symptoms of high-functioning depression
Persistent low mood: An ongoing feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or dissatisfaction that lingers beneath the surface.
Fatigue and lack of energy: A deep, pervasive tiredness that does not seem to improve with rest, making even routine tasks feel overwhelming.
Difficulty experiencing joy: Moments of happiness may feel muted or fleeting, as if a cloud hangs over even the brightest of days.
Self-criticism and perfectionism: A relentless inner dialogue that emphasizes shortcomings and dismisses accomplishments, often paired with a need and a drive to meet unrealistically high standards.
Social withdrawal or irritability: While they may attend events or maintain friendships, those with high-functioning depression might feel emotionally distant or irritable in social settings.
Changes in sleep or appetite: Trouble sleeping, oversleeping, or changes in appetite—either eating too much or too little—are common physical manifestations.
Loss of Interest in Activities: Hobbies or activities that once brought joy may now feel like chores or have lost their appeal altogether.
The key distinction here is that these symptoms coexist with outward functionality. You may look like you are thriving, but inside, you are merely surviving.
The power of hypnosis in healing high-functioning depression
If you have identified with the symptoms above, know this: help is available, and healing is possible. One therapeutic modality gaining recognition for its profound impact on mental health is hypnosis.
Defining hypnosis
Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and deep relaxation that allows access to the subconscious mind. When used therapeutically, it helps individuals reframe limiting beliefs, release emotional blocks, and foster a sense of empowerment.
Hypnosis is a safe and natural state of relaxation with an increased level of awareness during which you are not asleep and are fully in control. You will experience a pleasant state of mind with increased attention and focus. The hypnotic state is similar to some moments in your life when you are daydreaming or fully absorbed in a specific activity like reading for example.
Hypnosis, at its core, is a state of deep relaxation, an altered state of consciousness, and heightened suggestibility. It is a collaborative journey between your conscious and your powerful subconscious mind, a doorway to the vast realm of your inner self. Contrary to popular misconceptions, it is absolutely not about relinquishing control but rather about harnessing your own innate power.
Contrary to what you have seen in movies, therapeutic and clinical hypnosis involves a lot more than traveling into a trancelike state after looking into someone’s eyes.
There is absolutely nothing to fear as hypnosis used in the strategic hypnotherapy I provide is totally different from stage and entertainment hypnosis and as you remain in control, you will never be asked to do anything foolish or against your will. In order for the hypnotherapy session to be successful, I must have your consent, collaboration and full commitment as the purpose is to help you reach a feeling of being more in charge and in control of your life.
Hypnosis is not about giving your power or control away. Contrary to popular belief, you cannot be hypnotised into doing things against your will. You cannot be forced into a hypnotic state either. Instead, you allow yourself to be hypnotised. It is a voluntary altering of your own consciousness, and you are always in control.
How hypnosis works for high-functioning depression
Rewiring negative thought patterns
High-functioning depression often stems from deeply ingrained thought patterns, such as self-criticism or feelings of unworthiness. Hypnosis helps reprogram these patterns by planting positive, affirming suggestions in the subconscious.
For example, if a person struggles with thoughts like, “I am not good enough,” hypnosis can help replace this belief with, “I am capable, deserving, enough, and worthy.” This shift can have a profound impact on self-esteem and overall mood.
Addressing root causes
Many individuals with high-functioning depression carry unresolved emotional wounds from their past. Hypnosis creates a safe space to explore these experiences and release their hold on the present.
Reducing stress and enhancing relaxation
The deep relaxation achieved in a hypnotic state can help reset the nervous system, reducing chronic stress and anxiety—common accomplices of depression.
Building resilience and inner strength
Hypnosis helps individuals connect with their inner resources and rediscover their sense of purpose. This renewed connection to one’s inner power can be transformative in overcoming the challenges of high-functioning depression.
Scientific backing for hypnosis
Research supports the efficacy of hypnosis in managing depression. A 2019 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis found that hypnotherapy can significantly reduce depressive symptoms when combined with other therapeutic approaches. Additionally, hypnosis has been shown to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being—critical components of recovery from high-functioning depression.
Reclaiming your power
High-functioning depression may thrive in silence, but you do not have to. By acknowledging the signs, seeking support, and exploring powerful modalities like hypnosis, you can take meaningful steps toward healing, and you will move forward in a healthier way.
Remember, your worth is not defined by your productivity or your ability to mask your pain. As Ralph Waldo Emerson so clearly stated, the greatest power lies within you.
If you resonate with these words, know this: you are not alone, and your journey toward joy and fulfilment begins with one brave step. Whether through hypnosis, therapy, or the support of loved ones, healing is not just possible—it is your birthright.
You are capable. You are resilient. And most importantly, you are enough.
Nadija Bajrami, Strategic Hypnotherapist, Mind Coach
French by birth, Nadija lived in Scotland for 7 years and travelled the world. After recovering from some serious health issues, Nadija had a wake-up call and came to Ireland to find her path. She has been living in Dublin since 2017. Nadija is working mostly online worldwide and shares her time between Ireland, France, and Switzerland.
Nadija is a multi-award-winning trauma and empowerment specialist with a double diploma in hypnotherapy, mind coaching, and online therapy. She is also a Reiki master and a grief educator, and she has been trained by an international grief specialist and best-selling author, David Kessler. Nadija is also an end of life doula.
She is dedicated to helping her clients get empowered, supercharge their confidence and self-esteem, overcome their limiting beliefs as well as manage anxiety, and trauma responses. She also helps people on their grief and healing journey through her therapy, coaching, grief education and support programmes and spiritual work.
