Ohio Valley Times

It is often difficult to detect signs of substance use in high-functioning adults who appear to manage their responsibilities effectively. Despite a busy lifestyle and apparent success, these individuals can hide their struggles with depression and addiction. Changes in sleep patterns, energy levels, or mood may be attributed to everyday stress, masking deeper issues.

"When depression and substance use show up together, they can feed off each other," the press release states. Recognizing the complex interplay between these issues in high-functioning individuals requires awareness. Dual diagnosis care and rehab programs, especially in West Virginia, offer solutions tailored to address both concerns.

High-functioning adults may hold jobs, manage households, or maintain social lives, all while battling addiction or depression. This creates a facade that is difficult for others, and sometimes themselves, to see through. Symptoms such as exhaustion, disconnection, or relying heavily on energy to maintain appearances are common.

"You can hold a job, manage a household, and still struggle with addiction or depression," the report explains. Depression's role in masking substance use becomes evident as individuals continue to function despite their struggles. This deceptive appearance demands a careful and honest look to recognize the underlying issues.

Specific symptoms of atypical depression in high-functioning adults include excessive sleep, increased appetite, heavy limbs, sensitivity to rejection, and sudden mood shifts. High-functioning depression differs from major depressive disorder, allowing individuals to meet daily expectations while feeling internally exhausted or numb.

The report highlights that "depression doesn’t always look like sadness or isolation." High-functioning individuals may appear tired or stressed but remain productive, leading them to become overlooked by friends and colleagues. As with other warning signs, mental health professionals are crucial in identifying problems that might otherwise be missed.

These professionals, trained to spot subtleties, often address depression and substance use together, providing a space for honesty and connection to necessary treatments like benzo rehab or alcohol use support. Speaking up is emphasized as a crucial step toward acknowledgment and recovery.

Encouraging open conversations and engaging in integrated dual diagnosis treatment can offer new paths for those struggling. Sustaining recovery requires commitment to ongoing therapy and support. High-functioning adults need a consistent plan to manage their health.

The press release advises ongoing involvement as part of recovery, noting, "The support is out there. You just need to keep showing up for yourself." Recognizing hidden issues and reaching out for help can lead to significant, positive change.

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