✨ Evidence-Based Assessment

High-Functioning Depression Quiz

Successful on the outside, struggling on the inside? This assessment can help you recognize the hidden signs of persistent depressive disorder.

📝 15 Questions
⏱️ 5 min Average Time
🔒 Private Confidential
✨ Free No Cost

Could You Have High-Functioning Depression?

Many high achievers experience chronic low mood that goes unrecognized because they keep pushing through. Answer these questions honestly to better understand your emotional wellbeing.

Question 1 of 15 7%

I feel tired or low on energy most of the time, even when I've had enough sleep.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I go through the motions of daily life without feeling much joy or satisfaction.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I put on a "mask" for others, appearing fine when I'm really struggling inside.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I feel like I'm never good enough, no matter how much I accomplish.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I have difficulty making decisions, even small ones.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I feel disconnected from other people, even those close to me.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I struggle to feel excited about things I used to enjoy.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I am hard on myself and engage in negative self-talk.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I feel like I'm just surviving rather than truly living.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I experience changes in my appetite or weight that seem unrelated to diet changes.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I have trouble sleeping or I sleep too much.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I feel hopeless about the future or believe things won't get better.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I have difficulty concentrating or my mind often goes blank.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I use work, busyness, or achievements to distract from how I feel inside.

Never or rarely
Sometimes
Often
Almost always

I've felt this way for more than two years.

No
Maybe / Not sure
Probably yes
Definitely yes
0
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    What is High-Functioning Depression?

    High-functioning depression, clinically known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression where individuals maintain their daily responsibilities while experiencing persistent low mood, fatigue, and emptiness inside. Unlike major depressive episodes, symptoms are typically less severe but last much longer — often for years.

    People with high-functioning depression are often high achievers who appear successful and capable to others. They may excel at work, maintain relationships, and meet all their obligations. But internally, they're running on empty, going through the motions without genuine joy or fulfillment.

    Because they "function," their depression often goes unrecognized — both by themselves and others. Many don't realize they have depression because they've felt this way so long it seems normal. If you're curious about how your mood connects to relationship patterns, our attachment style quiz can provide additional insight.

    Common Signs of High-Functioning Depression

    Unlike major depression which often causes visible impairment, high-functioning depression hides beneath a capable exterior. Here are common signs:

    ✓Chronic fatigue despite adequate sleep
    ✓Going through the motions without joy
    ✓Persistent feelings of emptiness
    ✓Harsh self-criticism and perfectionism
    ✓Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
    ✓Using busyness to avoid feelings
    ✓Feeling like an imposter
    ✓Social withdrawal despite appearing social

    High-Functioning vs. Major Depression

    Understanding the differences can help you recognize what you're experiencing:

    Aspect
    High-Functioning Depression
    Major Depression
    Duration
    2+ years (chronic)
    2+ weeks (episodic)
    Severity
    Mild to moderate, persistent
    Moderate to severe
    Daily Function
    Maintains responsibilities
    Often impaired
    Visibility
    Hidden, "invisible"
    More apparent to others
    Self-Perception
    "This is just who I am"
    "Something is wrong"

    For a clinical assessment of major depression symptoms, take our PHQ-9 depression screening quiz. If you're also experiencing worry and tension, our anxiety quiz (GAD-7) can help you understand the overlap.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is high-functioning depression?

    High-functioning depression, clinically known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression where individuals maintain their daily responsibilities while experiencing persistent low mood, fatigue, and emptiness internally. Symptoms are typically less severe than major depression but last much longer, often for years.

    Why does high-functioning depression often go undiagnosed?

    High-functioning depression often goes undiagnosed because individuals appear successful and capable externally. They may dismiss their symptoms as normal stress, and others may not recognize their struggle because they continue to meet responsibilities. The chronic nature also leads many to believe this is simply their personality.

    Can high-functioning depression be treated?

    Yes, high-functioning depression is highly treatable. Individual therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy, is very effective. Some individuals also benefit from medication. Lifestyle changes including exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management also support recovery.

    Can high-functioning depression occur with anxiety?

    Yes, high-functioning depression frequently co-occurs with anxiety disorders. Many individuals experience both conditions simultaneously, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment but both are highly treatable with proper professional support. Take our anxiety quiz to assess your anxiety symptoms.

    How does attachment style relate to depression?

    Attachment styles developed in early relationships can influence vulnerability to high-functioning depression. Insecure attachment patterns may contribute to the perfectionism, self-criticism, and difficulty seeking help that characterize this condition.

    Is EMDR effective for high-functioning depression?

    EMDR therapy can be effective for high-functioning depression, especially when underlying trauma or difficult life experiences contribute to depressive symptoms. It helps process unresolved emotional experiences that may fuel chronic depression.

    Related Assessments

    These quizzes can provide additional insights into your mental health and relationship patterns.

    PHQ-9 Depression Quiz

    Clinical standard for assessing major depression symptoms.

    Anxiety Quiz (GAD-7)

    Assess anxiety symptoms which often co-occur with depression.

    Attachment Style Quiz

    Discover how your attachment patterns influence emotional health.

    All Quizzes

    Explore our full library of free mental health assessments.

    About This Assessment

    This high-functioning depression quiz is designed to help you recognize potential signs of persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). The questions assess common experiences of those who maintain external functionality while experiencing chronic internal struggle.

    The assessment covers key areas including chronic low mood, fatigue, perfectionism, emotional numbness, self-criticism, social disconnection, and the tendency to mask one's true feelings.

    Disclaimer: This online assessment is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any medical or mental health condition. Only a licensed mental health professional can provide a clinical diagnosis through a comprehensive evaluation. If you have concerns about your mental health, please contact a licensed therapist.

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