High-Functioning Depression in Veterans

Have you ever felt like you’re marching through the days, weeks, or even months, with a weight on your shoulders that you can’t quite put your finger on? You keep moving forward, getting things done, maybe even achieving more than most, but something still feels ‘off’. It’s like there’s a cloud hanging over you, not enough to stop you, but enough to make you feel like you’re not fully yourself. You push through it because that’s what you’ve always done. After all, you’ve faced tougher battles. But this one is different. It’s silent, invisible, and often goes unnoticed by those around you—even by yourself.

Maybe you’ve noticed that the things that used to bring you joy now feel like chores. Perhaps you’re constantly tired, even when there’s no clear reason for it. You might find yourself getting through the day on autopilot, always putting others first, because that’s how you were trained. But in those quiet moments, when the world slows down, you’re left wondering why you feel so disconnected, why something feels not quite right. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone.

You might be navigating your days while carrying the weight of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another mental health challenge. I started to explore this more deeply when I found myself simply going through the motions—struggling to focus, feeling unmotivated, and losing the joy in things that once brought me so much happiness. It wasn’t just a bad day or a rough week; it became a persistent feeling that something was off. I noticed it creeping into every aspect of my life—work, relationships, even my sense of purpose. I realized that this wasn’t just a passing phase but a deeper issue that needed my attention. That’s when I knew I had to look into the symptoms more closely, to understand what was really going on beneath the surface.

I discovered something called Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), which is also referred to as high-functioning depression. As Veterans, we carry the pressures of military life, the stressors of transitioning to civilian life, and the weight of unspoken memories—these can all contribute to this silent struggle. We’re still showing up every day, but beneath the surface, there’s an ongoing battle that’s just as real as any we’ve faced before.

High-functioning depression, or PDD, is a condition where an individual manages to maintain daily responsibilities and outward appearances while battling ongoing depressive symptoms. It’s less severe than major depression, but the symptoms are chronic and can last for years, often going unnoticed by others.

What Does High-Functioning Depression Look Like?

• Consistent Low Mood: You may feel a persistent sense of sadness or hopelessness but can still fulfill work, family, and social obligations.
• Lack of Enjoyment: Even in activities that were once pleasurable, there’s a dullness or inability to fully experience joy.
• Overwhelm and Fatigue: Simple tasks feel exhausting, and you may experience a constant sense of being overwhelmed.
• Self-Criticism: You might often engage in harsh internal dialogue, feeling that you’re never doing enough.
• Masking Symptoms: Many people with high-functioning depression are adept at hiding their struggles, making it difficult for others to notice.

High-Functioning Depression in Veterans

Studies show that Veterans may be particularly vulnerable to high-functioning depression due to the unique stresses of military life, such as exposure to trauma, prolonged periods away from home, and the challenge of transitioning to civilian life. The pressure to maintain a strong, resilient exterior can also make it difficult to seek help. Here are some tips to help you if you are experiencing these symptoms:

1. Understand and Identify Symptoms: Take time to learn about PDD and how it might manifest differently in veterans. Write down your own symptoms or feelings that cause you concern.
2. Journaling and Storytelling: Writing out your personal stories can provide clarity and help you identify the source of some of your feelings. Sharing your story with a VA healthcare provider can help you access mental health services and resources.
3. Seek Help: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is no honor in suffering alone. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
4. Practice Self-Care: Self-care allows you to explore non-traditional coping mechanisms such as mindfulness, physical activity, and connecting to a support network. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for overall well-being.

If you’re feeling like you’re just going through the motions, take a moment to reflect. Mental health challenges like PDD are often silent but significant, impacting your life in ways you might not even realize. You’ve faced challenges before, and this one is no different in its need for attention and care. Reach out, seek help, and remember—you’re not alone in this journey. Together, we can break the silence and move towards healing and well-being.