#1 Researcher: 7 Signs You May Have High Functioning Depression

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In today’s episode, you’re going to learn about something important and rarely discussed that specifically impacts busy people and high achievers.
Just ask yourself:
- Do you just have coffee for breakfast, because a real meal would slow you down?
- Do you eat lunch while you work, instead of taking a break?
- Do you mindlessly scroll before going to bed because your mind is too busy?
- Do you take on extra work because you think, “I’m the only one who can do this, right?”
- Are you always there for others but don’t take care of yourself?
These are some of the signs of high-functioning depression you should not ignore.
Joining Mel today is the world’s leading expert and researcher on this topic, Dr. Judith Joseph, MD. (@drjudithjoseph )
Today, Dr. Joseph is here to share her groundbreaking research on this important subject and exactly what to do to feel more energized, excited, joyful, and present in your life again.
Dr. Joseph is a renowned double-board-certified psychiatrist who trained at and is affiliated with Columbia University and New York University. She is also a pioneering researcher and the founder and principal investigator of her research institute, Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, where she has conducted over 60 clinical research trials with her all-female medical team, which focus on high-functioning conditions, including high-functioning depression.
This episode is for all the busy people who keep it all together, the moms on the move, and the overachievers at work. You’ll be surprised, moved, and feel a sense of relief and peace after today’s episode.
For more resources related to today’s episode, click here for the podcast episode page: www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/ep...
Follow The Mel Robbins Podcast on Instagram: / themelrobbinspodcast
I’m just your friend. I am not a licensed therapist, and this podcast is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional. Got it? Good. I’ll see you in the next episode.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
02:03: The 7 surprising symptoms of high functioning depression.
06:19: The surprising truth about medical research.
07:02: How depression shows up differently for men.
08:23: What happened to Mel’s husband, Chris when he was struggling.
09:58: What is high functioning depression?
12:33: What a “day in the life” of someone with high functioning depression looks like.
14:18: What makes high functioning depression different from low functioning depression?
16:37: What depression looks like in 2024.
18:05: Watch out for this sneaky symptom of depression.
20:20: What is happening in the brain and body when you have high functioning depression.
23:34: If you feel diminishing joy and don’t want to seek medical help, here’s what you can do.
25:31: Do you take on extra work because you think, “I’m the only one who can do this, right?”
27:48: What is the biopsychosocial model and how Dr. Judith uses it in her practice.
29:49: If you feel like a burden to your friends and family, listen to this.
31:56: What scarcity trauma is and how it shows up in your life.
36:18: Do you feel like you can’t waste any food…ever?
40:12: How affect labeling can free you of your problems.
44:24: The information on menopause that needs to be talked about.
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[@babycj74]

I've been looking for help with this for years. I don't even know how to laugh anymore. I feel numb to everything around me, but I just keep going.

[@tinas2597]

I can relate 100%. I am not going to share with a doctor. Meds will not help and I am unable to change much with my current situation so talk therapy is out. No help available.

[@CMJames]

Same

[@CMJames]

Same, I can’t even cry even though I know I need too

[@madelyngentile7228]

Agree..me too.although i feel like crying alot

[@gloriaturner3892]

Me too. ​@@madelyngentile7228

[@lauradelucastroia4191]

As a nurse in long-term care, I worked through the entire period of Covid. During this time, I became POA for a relative who needed to go in a nursing home. I had to get them on Medicaid, sell their house and car, etc. my mother fell and broke her hip, was in the same nursing home for 6 weeks. I had Covid twice during this time. I know something happened to me during that time because I realized I couldn’t do it all and something had to give. I’ve never been the same since. I can’t even describe how I felt and still feel. Like battle fatigued. I still go to work but it’s not easy.

[@s.roberson584]

How are you right now?

[@lauradelucastroia4191]

59 years old

[@ritcha02]

Dr Joseph is such a brilliant communicator. She’s so calm and reassuring. Great interview and guest.

[@christinehcanada]

High functioning depression sounds like the burnout I’ve been feeling. Retirement can’t come fast enough!

[@vallang4832]

Oh I know what that feels like.

[@Beautybytracilei]

Recent retiree here. Not working doesn’t necessarily fix it if it is actual depression. In some ways, the lack of a sense of purpose and routine interaction with others that work can create can make it worse.

[@christinehcanada]

@@Beautybytracilei I hear ya. I have a retirement plan.

[@hikingphotobug6039]

​@@BeautybytracileiYes, what you said!

[@twannapermenter8229]

Retirement didn't help my depression. You will get rested though.

[@kayakins3051]

I think that life situations and things not being fully fulfilled can cause someone to get into depression. Relationships with people that don’t really care or pull their weight can affect you emotionally.

[@wisdom_steps]

All the best wishes 🙏

[@crissycobain8361]

So agree

[@reginareneerobertson]

Agreed. I'm high functioning because I have to. And I have begged for support and am willing to share the load, but no one wants to step up. They'd rather continue to suck value. Some of these relationships I can leave. One particular one, not so simple...

[@LadyDisdain3]

@@reginareneerobertson same here girl, same here

[@Dahmer_Jeff]

​@@reginareneerobertsonnobody can suck value unless you let them. Just let them go. It's easy. Letting go is easy when you prioritize your needs first.

[@s.roberson584]

"High functioning depression" is is an individual that is depressed,yet their able to do tackle everyday life. It's dangerous because the person appears fine. Since the person appears fine, no one checks on them the same as a regular person with depression. The text book depression you can see it , not taking showers,laying in bed,no appetite,or eat too much,etc. It's alot to deal with.

[@Michelle-wo1fm]

I've been saying that I'm a functioning depressive for years. It seems like a functioning alcoholic because they too can function but still have the underlying condition.

[@user-ch1bt9kk8i]

I would like to know the difference between burnout and high-functioning depression.

[@ashleyannephd]

Very good question, if your interested and it would be helpful I have a good video on burnout on my youtube channel.

[@ivyloney8217]

As a therapist there are a lot of blurred lines and crossover in diagnosis.This is why we see people get different diagnosis depending on who they see. It can be very confusing for sure! There is a lot we still don’t know for sure!

[@user-ch1bt9kk8i]

@@ashleyannephd Thanks, I will check it out ;)

[@elvisclarks2487]

Right I get burn out for doing way too much

[@Dahmer_Jeff]

​@@elvisclarks2487 you need priorities. How can anything get your full attention if you're doing too much. You're gonna have to chose whats highest priority and f%$# the rest. Give it to someone else or get rid of it. Decluttering, essentially

[@meeksochic]

I believe a lot of people (including myself) was pushed into high function depression, because the pandemic was the straw that broke the camels back. As a result of poor healthcare, which is costly, we’ve decided to keep going vs taking a mental break. Today was the first day I decided to take the Zoloft that was prescribed to me a year ago and then I saw this video. Thank you.

[@mariebroyles6020]

Good for you!! Keep moving forward!!🎉

[@exotixzyro9755]

This is SO true!!!

[@wisdom_steps]

Best wishes 🙏

[@InspiringTeacherUSA]

Great job

[@dfromtheblock1537]

35:26 inability to express warmth or be affectionate to one another

[@MrJasjgm]

I’ve had persistent depressive disorder for more than 5 years now. I don’t have family support - they don’t believe in depression and look down on it as a weakness. It was caused by major heartbreaks and trauma from family and work. As I continue to go home to a depressive atmosphere, I don’t think anything will change and I am just counting the days when I will end it. My heart goes out to everyone going through this and not being taken seriously.

[@exotixzyro9755]

Please see a counselor ❤

[@debbiemcindoe3779]

Honey change your mind set & thought patterns cos that's where it starts! One step at a time. *Everythjng will change for the better. What & who do you want in life? How do you want your life to be? Say, Feel & Believe this...l AM WILLING TO FORGIVE...I AM WILLING TO CHANGE THE PATTERNS IN ME THAT CREATED THIS SITUATION. You can do this❤ LOVE YOURSELF!

[@quotechew]

Keep holding on and be encouraged that there's a light at the end of the tunnel, to reach out toward. Please see someone who can and will help you, to listen and assist you greatly.

[@fc4660]

I’m so sorry it’s completely understandable with the lack of support that you feel like that. BUT remember that your family and workplace are not the only people in the world. You might find a local support group (or online) where you can be with other people and feel heard and understood. A therapist or counsellor is a good idea (you do not need family permission, do you!) if you prefer one to one. There is some great support online “Better Help” in the US offers good value for money therapy, if there could be a financial barrier. Know that you are worth the effort to find a solution. Good luck, you got this!

[@Kahala-ln1qu]

Feel yah. Just recovering from family soul trauma n religious recovery. You are 100% correct. It's/ they are not going to change. I don't know your situation but create beauty everywhere you can around you. If you have a lull garden. Go to it. That's where I heard a whisper " F him!!! not doing this anymore. done". Continued my journey (as I found my voice again!,) Watching things like this, CPTSD trauma vids, decluttered daily. Healing over time. . Honestly therapist was ok on the side as but got so much more from doing the work with Mel and then there was Annie, Crappy Fairy Lady on cptsd last couple year's. Remember you don't need their F ING permission or approval. Once I acknowledged this n all the toxic crap done to my beautiful soul, I was able to change my whole life at 60. Good luck. Keep going. F them

[@theresapotts9867]

My sister and I just had this conversation about not feeling joy....it's an effort

[@keynolivia]

This definitely describes a special needs full time caregiver mom. 😢 I’m certain I’ve been experiencing high functioning depression for the past 2.5 years.

[@raymondkymsuttle]

I manage to get some things done but only when there’s a hard deadline. I waste days when I don’t have to work because I don’t want to spend money doing things I might enjoy because I’m in so much debt & stressed about paying my rent. Two of my jobs require me to be both cheerful & caring & somehow I manage to do that but I’m exhausted when I get home. I do laugh & have fun with people but life just seems overwhelming & I definitely have a lack of joy.

[@Cindy-vx6us]

I’ve been speaking with a psychologist about just this. I go to work every day. I don’t call in sick. I’m paying my bills. On the outside people would probably tell you I’m fine and really wouldn’t know anything. There’s not hardly a day that I don’t cry and wonder why I’m doing all this! People think depression means you’re in your bed and not getting up and there is a form of depression that does do that to you, but I’m single and I have been for about 12 years now and gonna pay my bills, but no one‘s gonna see that I have food to eat but me the depression is so overwhelming. I can’t even begin to really truly explain it. You don’t really hang out with friends I don’t really socialize. I don’t really do anything other than work, but I do manage to do that. I guess because it’s needed. It’s a functioning depressionest. Like an alcoholic who manages work but still drinks off hours.

[@larabraver]

I'm sorry to hear this. Sounds like me a couple of years ago. Turning to God for a higher meaning, praying more and understanding Islam on a deeper level has helped. May God guide you ❤

[@moochirumi2553]

Same here.

[@tiamarie1226]

I relate ....except I'm a single mom bills have to work , have to make sure daughter has guidance and better life , have to clean and do laundry etc .

[@larabraver]

@@tiamarie1226 Same here. I know how hard it is to keep all the balls in the air; I salute you 💪 In retrospect, I wish I had worked less and been gentler with myself. I wish you and your daughter the best ❣️

[@laurahedlund733]

My fears started in prison with not having enough to survive. And then because of my actions my many trips to segregation and the impact of loss every time just broke me. The last time I went to segregation I got sent for being "too happy" and failed a drug test for a medication the prison put me on. I sat in segregation for 11 days before they let me out for a false positive test.

[@denacook7033]

Fabulous Conversation. So PROUD of the Doctors achievements as an African Woman❤

[@MichelleGavarrete-vi4cp]

This literally affects my life, my family, my friendships, and my health. Shared with several peeps!

[@anneeastaway2311]

Mel, you are great at asking the correct questions, the things that we all want to know. Thank you

[@veronicag.blount8218]

scarcity trauma, wow, clean plate club, saving those clothes, wow, lightbulb moment, affect labeling , so enlightening!

[@cynthiaengle3226]

Mel, I’ve been going to psychiatrist all my life and I’m 65. I don’t understand why these doctors can’t seem too keep me from being depressed! I take many medications and never get healthy! Now, that my family has passed on, grieving depression, which is the worse feeling ever! I don’t know how I can stay healthy and a once in awhile happy feeling! I’m dead already but I’m not dying yet cannot get out of bed. I’m scared, my doctor doesn’t care and my friends are too far away. I don’t want to upset anyone and tell them that I’m slowly dying, by my own words! I cry everyday and have no idea what to do by myself! Confused, Gor phobic, scared of going to the mailbox or grocery store, especially if it’s going into the doctors offices! I take phone calls! I’m so lonely and appreciate you writing me; you make me feel like there is someone who cares about me; I’m grateful to you! Thank you dear for sharing your caring and sending me your messages and support even if you didn’t know how much it means to me! God Bless you and family! Love, Cynthia!

[@kathrynnorrisctmltbsascp2913]

I was moved with compassion when reading your comment. I pray for you specifically. I felt some of your symptoms, like life was draining out of me and I felt watered down. I started HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) and I feel like my cup of life is being refilled. I found MyAlloy for HRT because so many doctors won’t prescribe HRT. I will pray for you every time you come to my mind through the unity of the Spirit of faith. 😊

[@jeangray6863]

She's right on point, I am extremely social and supportive of others at work, when home alone, I sleep the whole day

[@Dare2chance]

I was high functioning to a degree but when it came to personal success I would crash and burn , I was told the reason why I …. Was because I would never slow down, know I was physically forced to slow down I’m struggling with energy to do anything that brings me joy

[@beyondthesunpodcast]

OMGosh reading this is eye opening that it’s not just me experiencing what you described: no energy to do what brings me joy. Hoping you and I both and anyone else, can move beyond this

[@beatrizgrimaldi211]

It's so difficult to look for help when you really don't have a support system

[@nata3467]

This is me. I need to figure out a way out of this trap I've made for myself

[@yvonneaaron7685]

Same😢

[@tghamilton1079]

Same. I'm very busy. I push through, but I'm exhausted in more than the physical way.

[@mariebroyles6020]

Great to get a clearer picture of the differences and similarities between anxiety and depression. Thank you, Dr Joseph, for all your knowledge and sharing it with us. Love you Mel.

[@BrittanyNicolesArt]

I’ve been dealing with this all my life, after a suicide attempt my doctor suggested ketamine treatment… I’m nervous, but would like to enjoy life again

[@anagabriellat8281]

Been working on myself for 22 years with the help of the 12 step program. Best decision ever. Therapy didn’t provide the validation, hope and warmth of the great fellowship. To each its own.

[@eringarcia5003]

I need someone over my shoulder to tell us this everyday when our ultimate goals seem unrealistic in this economy 🎉

[@aimster2084]

Dang I didn't expect this direct attack so early in the day.

[@DoreeSeiver-vt1cm]

I know someone who has lost something- A 21 year old son… And he works a lot and something Is Off… Thank You for this very important topic!!❤️

[@marcemor742]

Depression = life. Life changes your family as you knew it changes. You're affected by a loved one suffering a mental illness. Being their caregiver. Overwhelming. You just dont know.

[@lynnmarksberry]

Now that I have a name for it, I can talk to my Doctor about it. Thank you for this, Dr. Joseph and Mel!

[@MasterRoss-sn7dl]

It’s just depression plain and simple

[@TK-xy3fm]

I feel numb all the time. I can't even feel or receive love . Been 30 yrs. Was on antidepressants made me suicidal. Can't take them

[@karencolangelo5220]

What a great episode. Thank you. Thank you. I feel like I can start to unload this because I know it's real!

[@WendySalima]

Oh my goodness, I just realized the movie It's a Wonderful Life illustrates the high functioning depression and scarcity trauma by showing the journey all the way through it from the angel Gabriel challenging his thoughts to friends in real life helping George because they love him and knew he wasn't well and needed help. So many times I've found myself in the hyper-independent category. With care for myself and therapy it brought me back from burnout and better financial circumstances. Ask for help, you're worth it and you're loved.

[@melaniewipprecht2103]

When I was a teenager, I ended up in emerge then my family doctors office due to an overwhelming urge to hurt myself while at school. After taking a test, I was told I wasn't scoring high enough and to come back in two weeks if I still felt the same.... I never went back. I have been feeling depressed for months, if not years, but still dragged myself through life. It would be another 3 years before I ended up in front of another doctor. This one told me I was on the fence, but gave me medication. She could see me shaking from trying so hard not to cry. I never fit criteria but I have struggled for 25 years on and off.

[@hyleythvillasmilbustos584]

I appreciate a lot this episode, sometimes between your busy life, kids, work and your own dreams you do not pay attention to the other adults around you that probably are going through these things. Even when you feel you can with everything, not everybody can, not all of those are the same

[@ashleyannephd]

This is so important, thank you so much for addressing the issue in such a beautiful way.

[@digipx]

Thank you for all that you do and all of the great information ❤ you bring me joy

[@user-sr8ud5ug3w]

I want dr. Judith to be my doctor! For the first time in my life I felt heard and validated. I had a full hysterectomy at 36, now at 43 I’m not only dealing with menopause at a relatively early age but high functioning depression as well. I ugly-cried my entire way through this interview because she hit the nail on the head. Yes, I have a full time job, 3 beautiful daughters and a lot going for me but I still lack joy and feel empty inside. People think I’m ungrateful and that I’m exaggerating my “depression” because to the average person, I appear to have my life together but inside I’m dying. @melrobbins can you please put me in touch with someone who has a heart like dr. Judith? From the bottom of my heart I am forever grateful for the work you do. Your podcasts have saved me ❤

[@martamitchelldesigns]

Fantastic episode! Thanks Mel, thanks Dr Judith!

[@victoriaelizabethwhitimaxw1613]

Menopause it's like my body is falling apart. I get brain fogg if I don't keep busy. It takes me all day just to do the most simple duties. I hate how slow menopause makes me. Yep apparently I don't look as though I have menopause and I get fobbed off my drs and mental health practitioners. 😮😮

[@ivyteacherwilson]

The same for me. Menopause, and it's debilitating symptoms, is not talked about enough, even with my my female gynecologist.

[@RU-rf5bk]

There are genetics like MTHFR or COMT that are linked to depression and other mental health symptoms. Look into that, and follow the nutritional advice associated with your genetics. You can get your genetic testing done at 23andMe, then take the raw data and upload it (for free) to genetic genie. You can also use this data with a psychiatrist or Dr that uses genetics in their practice. Your genetics can tell them which medication will or will not work for you.

[@anna3687]

Wow this is fascinating

[@exotixzyro9755]

Thank you!

[@shalonda8669]

Thank you Mel❤ for having this guest. I love watching your podcasts and this one for sure hits home 🫶🏽❤️❤️ Mel you are amazing by the way!!!

[@user-ji4sj8yd9n]

Thank you for the topic...i've been living with this for years and hidden it well. I finally got to a point where i am dealing with it. So grateful 🙏

[@pce12345]

Thank you Mel and Dr Joseph for this ❤ And to you and Chris for sharing your journey with depression. This is powerful is shining a light on what many people are experiencing alone and silently

[@codeRebelBase]

Thank you so much for this, such great information, everything here resonates with me.

[@lisaolaynack3033]

Thank you, great info😊

[@BeersJenna]

I wish I had this video 4-5 years ago! Thank you.

[@Mimi-fe2gm]

Smart and beautiful! Thank you for your work, this has really resonated with me, I didn’t see it but now I have clarity on what is going on with me. ❤ and thanks Mel for changing my life in so many ways ❤❤

[@ninelkhait9110]

Thank you for your videos ❤

[@pattypohlit7803]

Always thank you Mel❤🎉😢 It's so much 🙏

[@tanyapinto5709]

Thank you Mel for this great session. You are INCREDIBLE. Yeah and Dr Judith is remarkable too

[@wilmaingram278]

I thank you Mel very much fir all that you do!!

[@curlAlldizzle05]

Wow... game changer. A lot of the things you ladies discussed I have seen in myself. And Definitely in others. Co workers, family, and friends. Whom just "work" around it. Gotta share this.

[@meredithslack6895]

Thank you Mel

[@duartereino8331]

wow mind-blowing. thank you

[@carolinecullen7441]

Thank you for this Podcast. It's a wake up call for me..

[@deluxecoco2789]

I learned so much from this podcast and I appreciate the open conversation.

[@pattythomson2455]

I Love YOU. you always hit it on the mark.,,,,100%. I listen to you on the way and on the way home from work and just can not get enough of you! Thank you for you

[@coco55able]

Thank you❤

[@virginiaflores8052]

I Mail I was watching a video I gave my clothes away all the time and then I will go back and say why did I gave that away now I need it I was wondering you were a lot of black clothes I have a daughter who wears nothing but black all the time I worry about that. I also have another daughter who lost everything. It was stolen from her a trailer full of stuff and now she’s holding onto everything she’s got and I know what you’re talking about me I threw everything away. I am 79 years old, I had all kinds of experience already.❤❤

[@exotixzyro9755]

I love this doctor! ❤

[@annettecabezas6697]

I just wanted to say Mel Robbins that I love your content and your a great friend.🌹❤️👑

[@katerinaragavanis268]

Thank you

[@elvisclarks2487]

Yes to all of that ❤ thank you Mel

[@lisacockrell6830]

This is Gold!

[@lb1798]

8:40 Normally, I see this in a person WHEN THEY ARE DEAD...LORD HAVE MERCY.💔

[@amalhasan6180]

Very learning topic

[@antoinetterob]

wow, eyes opened

[@Jigolpets]

Thanks lady 🥰🌸

[@ctr2661]

This was amazing...been told often, "Come back when.."..but somethings got to give 😒

[@RU-rf5bk]

Except things DO happen where everything falls apart and you have nothing. At 64 I just lost my entire income. I have developed physical health problems and can’t do the work I once did. I have about 4-5 months of savings left to live on and then I will have no money. I have cPtsd, depression, ADHD, tinnitus, chronic spine pain (can’t stand or sit for long periods of time). I have no idea what I’m going to do. And I’m glad I saved things for “just in case”.. yesterday my coffee grinder broke and I was able to get the one that had a broken button on it but still works out of my downstairs cupboard and make my coffee. I also can sell a lot of things that I have kept “for a yardsale or to sell online”… there’s enough to give me a few more months to figure this out.

[@miriamcummings7272]

So sad to read where you are right now. Know there is hope for you and 64 yrs is not a dead end. I am 64 yrs and recently lost an adult child I cared for 20 yrs. I had no real help and support from family and all of my earning years compromised because I chose to advocate and care for my son. I worked part time in my own business to have the flexibility need to assist with two major disabilities. After he passed sway, I now am figuring out my new beginning with no retirement or savings. Here is the rub - I know I deserve better than the lack in finance and poor credit. I know there is a solution for me. O am still working part time as a massage therapist and reiki master. I just finished real estate school and will take my finals before the state exam. In addition there are tons of jobs, grants and projects online that you can do for income. Major companies hire work from home online jobs. Also you are at the age for social security. I now receive social security and just received my school tax exempt letter which will remove $400 off my mortgage monthly payments. I don’t know where you rainbow is but know that you do have a rainbow in your story. 🌈 Be well,

[@Untilsheputherfootdown]

I don’t know where you live but try to see if you can get disability help. If you live in the states some states do help with that. Google disability assistance program. I hope that helps. Sending love your way. I hope things get better soon.

[@dag-sc2ptVlasticka24]

Ladies, I am very touched by your stories 💔! You are in my prayers 🙏🙏

[@kathrynnorrisctmltbsascp2913]

I have great empathy for you. I can relate to you by my own experiences. I will pray for you and those who are sharing their own hardship experience. There are so many women in such daunting circumstances that I am moved with compassion because I remember my own. God deliver you from your troubles through wisdom and faith.

[@TravelingBibliophile]

My family have told me over the past couple of years that I probably have HFD. Now, after hearing Dr. Joseph describe the symptoms/criteria for it, where I could check off each of the ones she listed, it is something that I need to investigate further.

[@Yourequiremoreminerals]

Me in my bed; no ma'am, not so high functioning.

[@Avencina]

OMG I just answered Yes to every single questions 😳

[@nyd2021]

me too

[@TreasureForeverOfficial]

First of all the way our society is run I wouldn’t be surprised if most people have high functioning depression, but that’s just a therapist definition of a certain kind of human condition… We all have to make the right choices for ourselves and a lot of it has to do with our diet, our job, where we live and who we live with, if we are pursuing our passions, etc. it’s not just “let’s label everyone as having something wrong with them so we can prescribe them a drug or use electric stimulation” 🙄--- what we NEED is better people running our communities and more community driven projects

[@celestinaacosta5332]

On point.... 😒

[@Pamalumpa]

Very helpful, thank you. I'm "meh" on both tests recommended. I'll share with my therapist.

[@claudiatzava]

I can relate to all of it.

[@sherlockwho5714]

I don't ask for help because I don't want to be a burden I have depression and anxiety because mental health wasn't something I grew up with and because I told myself I wasn't depressed enough, because I wasn't hurting myself. It took 20 years for me to accept that I needed help. No clue where the sometimes nightmarish intrusive thoughts come from. I'm better off with medication even if it doesn't cure me. Even if I still struggle to find joy in most things.

[@lkd06]

Life burnout for many people because you need more than one job just trying to stay fed and keep a roof over your head at these extortionate prices...who would feel pleasure in this situation?

[@paulahartman1971]

I'm feeling like this. I NEED HELP. 53 single mom. Been through hell and back in 5 months. Lost job, house, now living in a hotel. My 21 yrold son has not left me or his brother. My 19 daughter is staying with friends. I'm really struggling. Looking for a job while your moving from hotel to hotel that's cheapest, while keep my 15 yrold in school. I'm have been on my own since 15 had my 1st child. Been through desmistc abuse, Took me 9 yrs and 7 yrs of that was on zan and other. With no family support. If I cry it's in the shower away from the kids. I'm all they have.. I need mental and support at this time. I don't know how to keep functioning. If anyone can reach out please help. Don't know where to start.

[@kathrynnorrisctmltbsascp2913]

Paula, I will pray for you specifically. You are an extremely strong woman to make it through everything in your life. You’ve got grown children who will pitch in and help support the family unit. And a good cry is a great way to release tensions; everyone cries and then feels better. Things will settle down soon.

[@erikatrujillo6271]

I will pray for you God please help this lovely woman , she’s strong and keeps on going , please open up the doors for her my Lord .. in your mighty beautiful blood don’t abandon her amen 😢🙏🏼😥

[@RockCakesHQ]

omg thats me, yes to all questions!

[@mahilmagdasal8534]

Being a single mom, I can truly relate to this.

[@exotixzyro9755]

Ditto!!!

[@JosetteBadger]

Hang in there!!!

[@Michelina22]

It seems like it’s all at once ! That’s the hardest part

[@BajaGirl302]

Although I have ADHD, and my mind is always going! None of Mel’s questions fit in me. So all my answers are No.

[@Saminabano872]

Hey Mel your podcast is on fire! Exactly what I need. I have an idea for you to gain more listeners. You should dub it in Hindi, it will give you many more listeners as India has a big population.

[@missnya4368]

15:19 - 15:30 is so me 😢😢 always restless at first I thought it was my vitamin D but it all make sense now

[@s.roberson584]

Everything begins in the mind.the mind tells the body what to do. The mind can make you physically sick

[@saralaganesan2899]

Mel I love you too and my God Dr Judith Joseph .. it felt like you have heard my inner voice and made it understandable. Till now it all stayed encrypted and not revealed. Was secretly thinking I’m fully gone up top and alone…, Thank you thank you and thank you for all these wonderful research and Mel for getting it to us all over the world. ❤❤

[@user-pm7oj5kx3e]

I HAVE A QUESTION that has to do with trauma part of discussion. As a 55 year old woman, I believe I’ve had high functioning depression for over 5 years.Life in general is HARD. It’s the nature of being alive/human. From little to big to biggest, everything literally can be considered trauma. Everyone has been teased as a child. Everyone has felt alone or disconnected. Should it be assumed then that a human by definition is full of trauma? And if we all are traumatized on some level how then is that trauma looked at and treated as trauma versus just going through the hardships of life?On some level trauma doesn’t seem to be unique as a symptom. Just an aspect of life. It seems then the issue is more about how we individually deal with all the trauma we have/will/do experience. Thank you

[@aprilhawleylive5553]

This is me 100%

[@douxchats2868]

I can't even begin to recall what joy felt like and don't have the time or energy to figure it out. Just have to get my kid through college/grad school. Lots of people have got to be in this boat....so I'm not convinced this is depression, maybe it's "life burnout"?

[@kathrynnorrisctmltbsascp2913]

Investigate Hormone Replacement Therapy (MRT) because your terminology sounds very familiar to me. HRT regains vital life; and you deserve that now and in the future.

[@Michelina22]

I eat in small portions bc it’s so easy to waste food, or share with someone else if the want to ❤

[@irmapagan3088]

This is me and it makes sense

[@christykuder1190]

Why is it so hard for people to comprehend that they can TURN OFF social media and the news ??!!

[@sherineofficial7851]

Whew, this has been my life for YEARS….🙃😒

[@user-ov6zy2dh4d]

Bingo!!! This is me

[@user-uy6dj4kk8t]

What do you do once it is out of control? So much info available.