How are you doing???????

I haven’t written in a while due to the hectic blend of work obligations and other life commitments that have absorbed much of my time. During this period of reflection, it dawned on me how easily we become engrossed in the whirlwind of everyday existence, often neglecting the fundamental practice of self-assessment. Taking a moment to introspect and conducting regular wellness check-ins becomes imperative to ensure that we are not unwittingly traversing the path of a high-functioning yet deeply melancholic lifestyle.

What is High Function Depression? It is also referred to as functioning depression; this term characterizes people who exhibit signs of depression while still managing daily responsibilities proficiently. Even though you grapple with feelings of despair, hopelessness, or exhaustion, you are adept at masking these emotions, continuing to excel in daily tasks. Despite outward appearances, it is crucial to acknowledge these emotional struggles are profound and should not be dismissed. Whether you are experiencing this yourself or know someone who is experiencing it, it is vital to consider reaching out to a professional for assistance in addressing these concealed symptoms. Also, remember that you are not alone; I am right there with you. (The picture above is an AI developed woman who has high-functioning depression)

During the grieving process, it’s alarmingly easy to spiral into a state of High Function Depression, feeling compelled to go through each day for the sake of obligations like children, a spouse, a job, or other family members. I, too, find myself struggling with these, often numbed to the world around me, only occasionally stirring with emotion when a fleeting memory surfaces. For instance, not long ago, engrossed in the South Korean series “The Inheritors” on Netflix, the fervor of the main characters kindled a spark in me, reminiscent of past love. At that moment, a rush of excitement filled me as I rediscovered my humanity and a reminder that my current emotional state is temporary. This encounter served as a poignant reminder that despite grief’s weight, the ability to feel deeply and transiently endure—a quintessentially human trait—resides within me.

 Amidst the weight of grief, let’s not lose sight of self-care. While navigating the depths of sorrow, it’s vital to remember the essence of living. I’ve come to realize that grieving is an enduring journey, filled with days of varying hues—some good, some bad, and others inexplicably great, all enveloped in the cloak of grief. Throughout this emotional odyssey, it’s essential to pause, reflect, and then carry on, for in the midst of grieving, we are also actively living our lives. Take moments to check in on yourself, to halt, breathe, process, and then propel forward, always mindful that in grief, as in life, we are simultaneously GRIEVING AND LIVING.