PSG #022: The Dark Side of Success: How High-Functioning Depression Affects High Achievers like PhD candidates

High-functioning depression is a real thing and it's affecting high achievers everywhere. So let's dive into the dark side of success and see what's really going on.

1. Introduction: What is High Functioning Depression (HFD) and why should we care?

Hey there! Have you ever heard of High Functioning Depression (HFD)? It's a type of depression that affects high achievers, and it's a topic that we should definitely care about.

As a PhD candidate, you are definitively a high achiever and prone to overworking, exhaustion and depression. We have talked about this in previous issues: toxic research culture and the high cost of ignoring mental health.

HFD is not as well-known as other types of depression, but it's just as serious. High achievers are often praised for their success, but people don't see the dark side of it.

HFD can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

• (work) stress,
• imposter syndrome,
• self-doubt
• fear of failure
• and perfectionism.

These individuals may also have a tendency to prioritize work over self-care, leading to burnout and exhaustion. PhD candidates are very prone to these behaviours.

It's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of HFD in high achievers, such as:

• constant fatigue,
• irritability,
• and difficulty concentrating.

Another video on symptoms and treatment depression in general explaining in a very well understandable way: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiCrniLQGYc

Remember, it's okay to not be okay. In the following paragraphs, we'll dive deeper into the causes, signs and symptoms, coping mechanisms, and the importance of seeking professional help for HFD. Let's explore the dark side of success and how to overcome it.

2. Signs and Symptoms of HFD in High Achievers

Let's talk about the signs and symptoms of High Functioning Depression (HFD) in high achievers. You might be thinking, "Wait, what? High achievers can be depressed?"

Yes, they can. And the signs and symptoms might not be as obvious as you think. High achievers with HFD tend to mask their depression with their accomplishments, making it difficult to detect.

As a PhD candidate, you don’t want to admit your struggling and might try to hide the fact. You keep going because you want to get done and that’s what everybody else does and professors expect. You don’t want to seem week.

Here are 5 signs of HFD:

• you do everything the world asks of you so no one would think you struggle, but you feel empty most of the time
• you work hard, but you never feel energized or enthusiastic. Can’t find pleasure in things you enjoyed before
• scrolling social media, watching hours of streaming services, eating junk food to numb those feelings
• social events feel more like hard work than fun because it’s so exhausting to keep up the happy face
• high functioning ends when no one is looking → self-neglect

They might seem like they have it all together, but in reality, they are struggling with feelings of emptiness, worthlessness, and guilt.

They might also experience physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and stomach problems. If you're a high achiever and you notice these symptoms, it's important to acknowledge them and seek help.

Don't let your success overshadow your mental health. Remember, it's okay to not be okay.

3. How to Cope with HFD as a High Achiever

As a PhD candidate, coping with High Functioning Depression (HFD) can be a real challenge. It's easy to get caught up in the cycle of success and forget to take care of yourself. You have so many things on youe to-list that you might forget to rest, take time for fun things and recharching.

But, there are ways to lower the risk for HDF and to cope with HFD (if it is not too bad yet → see 5.)

• First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that you're not alone. Many high achievers and especially PhD candidates struggle with HFD, and it's nothing to be ashamed of.
• Secondly, make time for self-care. Whether it's taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or meditating, prioritize your mental health just as much as your work. 
• increase your resilience
• It's also important to set boundaries and learn to say no. You can't do it all, and that's okay.
• Finally, don't be afraid to seek professional help. Therapy can be a game-changer and can help you work through any underlying issues contributing to your HFD.

Remember, success is great, but not at the expense of your mental health.

4. The Importance of Seeking Professional Help for HFD

Let's face it, seeking professional help for anything can be a daunting task, but when it comes to High Functioning Depression (HFD), it's crucial.

As a high achiever, you may feel like you can handle everything on your own, but HFD is a tricky beast that can sneak up on you and take over your life. It's important to remember that seeking professional help doesn't mean you're weak or incapable, it means you're taking control of your mental health and well-being.

A therapist or counselor can provide you with the tools and support you need to manage your HFD and prevent it from spiralling out of control. They can also help you identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your HFD and work with you to address them. Remember, you don't have to go through this alone.

Seeking professional help is a brave and necessary step towards a healthier, happier you.

5. Conclusion: The Dark Side of Success and How to Overcome It

In conclusion, the dark side of success is not something to be taken lightly. High-functioning depression affects high achievers in ways that can be detrimental to their mental and physical health. However, there are ways to overcome it.

Coping mechanisms such as exercise, therapy, and mindfulness can all help alleviate the symptoms of HFD.

It's also important to seek professional help if you feel like you're struggling with HFD. Remember, success is not just about achieving goals, it's about taking care of yourself along the way. So, take a step back, breathe, and remember that it's okay to slow down and take care of yourself.

After all, you can't achieve success if you're not in a healthy state of mind and body.

See you next week!

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We start with the foundation, your mindset and on top of that we building two pillars with time management and stress management.