Though it may seem counterintuitive, some studies have found that the super successful oftentimes suffer from clinical depression. Despite their wealth and fame, they may feel empty and unfulfilled.
These financially successful people may feel like they’re not living up to their own high standards or those of others. They may also be more prone to self-induced anxiety and stress, which can lead to depression.
While they may have all the material things they could ever want, they may still feel like something is missing. Let’s discuss the main reasons for depression in those who are highly successful, and where you can go in Atlanta and Alpharetta for high-quality therapy and treatment for depression.
What Is Clinical Depression?
Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Clinical depression can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms. It can interfere with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy activities you once found pleasurable.
Depression in the Super Successful: High-Functioning Depression
Depression is relatively common in the general population, with an estimated prevalence of 7% as of 2017. However, the prevalence of clinical depression among the super successful is believed among experts to be much higher.
How is it that people as powerful and successful as CEOs can be so productive and still be depressed? They key may be “high-functioning” depression. High-functioning depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder, is a form of clinical depression that is characterized by less-severe symptoms. However, these symptoms persist for a longer period of time (at least 2 years).
Because symptoms of high-functioning depression are less severe than the typical symptoms of depression, like extreme lack of energy/motivation, those struggling with high-functioning depression can be struggling and no one else may even know. High-functioning depression can still interfere with your ability to function well at work or school and can cause relationship problems.
One study by professor of organizational psychology Dr. Valerie J. Sutherland found that nearly 25% of CEOs suffer from depression. This is likely due to the high levels of stress and anxiety associated with their jobs.
This isn’t just isolated to CEOs. Anyone in a high-powered position, those with lots of responsibilities at work, and the super successful often feel like they have to constantly perform at a high level in order to maintain their success. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure, even when they are doing well.
Symptoms of Clinical Depression
Symptoms of clinical depression can include:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite – weight loss or gain, unrelated to dieting
- Trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping
- Loss of energy or increased fatigue
- Increased anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or attempted suicide
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, digestive problems, and chronic pain
Clinical depression is more than just feeling “down” for a few days. It is a serious condition that requires treatment by a mental health professional. Depression is treatable, and there are many effective treatments available. These include medication, psychotherapy, and brain stimulation therapies.
If you think you may be suffering from clinical or high-functioning depression, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. While the symptoms of high-functioning depression are not as severe or obvious as those of clinical depression, they can still interfere with your ability to function and can cause relationship problems – and treatment will help to counteract the symptoms and issues.
Clinical Depression Treatment in Alpharetta and Atlanta
Clinical depression is a serious condition that requires treatment by an experienced mental health professional. If you think you may be suffering from clinical depression, come see us at Atlanta Specialized care. We treat patients for current symptoms, determine the origin of their symptoms or any trauma it may stem from, and then teach patients how to regulate their emotions and behavior for lasting change and effective treatment.
To arrange an appointment with one of our highly qualified mental health counselors, call us today at (770) 815-6853, or request an appointment here. Don’t let depression hold you back from living your most fulfilling life!
