Judith Joseph, a Columbia-trained psychiatrist and founder of Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, sheds light on high-functioning depression and its often hidden nature. She discusses how trauma, whether major or subtle, can trigger this condition, leading to feelings of anhedonia and self-defeat. The conversation explores the importance of recognizing everyday joys and the role of emotional intelligence in leadership. Judith also highlights the potential of therapeutic storytelling as a means for self-discovery and emotional healing, urging listeners to prioritize their mental well-being.
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insights INSIGHT
Masking High-Functioning Depression
High-functioning depression often goes unnoticed because people maintain productivity despite internal struggle.
Many endure it silently, masking pain with pathological busyness and a put-together appearance.
insights INSIGHT
Success Isn't Equal to Happiness
Success often is seen as the only path to happiness, but achievements alone don't guarantee joy.
Happiness consists of accumulating daily points of joy from basic pleasures and connections.
insights INSIGHT
Broad Definition of Trauma
Trauma includes many types, not just life-threatening events; common experiences can profoundly impact us.
Emotional pain from events like divorce or rejection can shape self-view and lead to high-functioning depression.
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Judith Joseph is a Columbia-trained psychiatrist and the founder of and chief investigator at Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, New York City’s premier clinical research site. She’s also a clinical assistant professor in child and adolescent psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center in Manhattan, and chairwoman of the Women in Medicine Board at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is the author of High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy*.
When we think about successful leaders, we often admire those who are loving towards others, can tolerate painful times, and know how to delay gratification. Those are all such important traits – and when we overindex on them, can become counter-productive. In this conversation, (Judith and I explore) when it’s no longer working and how to find the joy again.
Key Points
Many people who are experiencing high-functioning depression don’t realize it.
High-functioning depression is often triggered by trauma. That can be major trauma, but it can also be more common forms of trauma like divorce, workplace conflict, legal issues, and many more.
Anhedonia is one of the most common ways high-functioning depression reveals itself. It looks like not seeking out joyful activities and also not experiencing joy in activities that used to bring joy.
Masochism is the other common way high-functioning depression shows up. It manifests as a pattern of self-defeating, people-pleasing behavior.
The “superpowers” that come with high-functioning depression are viewed by others and society as strengths. However, over-indexing on being loving, tolerating pain, and delayed gratification are counter-productive over time.
Validation is a starting point for healing. Each person is unique and sometimes it’s helpful to begin with movies or other creative works that help you recognize yourself.
Coaching for Leaders 
