Avoiding your problems with work? You might have "high-functioning" depression

Los Angeles Times - Apr 8th, 2025

Judith Joseph, a board-certified psychiatrist and professor, has identified a phenomenon she calls high-functioning depression. Despite her impressive career, Joseph realized during the COVID-19 lockdown that many people, including herself, were experiencing depression in a form that allows them to maintain high levels of productivity. This led her to conduct the first research study on high-functioning depression, which revealed that sufferers often cope by over-functioning and avoiding emotions. Joseph's new book, "High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Find Your Joy," offers insights from her study, patient anecdotes, and personal experiences to help readers understand and address this condition.

The book emphasizes the importance of preventative mental health care and introduces the 'Five V's'—validation, venting, values, vitals, and vision—as steps to reclaim joy and combat high-functioning depression. Joseph argues that many people, especially those with trauma histories, can unknowingly fall into patterns of people-pleasing and self-neglect, which contribute to their depression. Her work highlights the need to recognize and process trauma to improve mental well-being, offering practical guidance for increasing joy and preventing emotional breakdowns. Joseph's findings challenge conventional perceptions of depression and advocate for a more nuanced understanding of mental health.

Mental Health Covid 19 Pandemic Columbia University Judith Joseph High Functioning Depression Preventative Care Five V's Anhedonia Masochism Nyu Langone Medical Center

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RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of Dr. Judith Joseph's work on high-functioning depression, offering valuable insights into a condition that affects many individuals. The story is well-researched and accurate, though it would benefit from additional verification of certain claims, such as the publication of Dr. Joseph's study.

The article is balanced in its presentation, focusing on Dr. Joseph's perspective while maintaining a neutral tone. However, it could incorporate more diverse viewpoints to enhance its depth. The reliance on Dr. Joseph as the primary source lends credibility, though additional sources would strengthen the reporting.

Clarity and readability are strong points, with the article effectively communicating complex concepts in an accessible manner. The topic is timely and addresses a significant public interest, contributing to ongoing discussions about mental health. Overall, the article is informative and engaging, with the potential to influence public understanding and encourage proactive mental health care.

Accuracy

The story presents a largely accurate depiction of Dr. Judith Joseph's credentials and her work on high-functioning depression (HFD). The article accurately describes Dr. Joseph as a board-certified psychiatrist and a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Medical Center, which aligns with her public profiles. However, the claim about Dr. Joseph conducting the first research study on HFD and its publication in February needs verification, as the article does not provide a direct source or citation for this claim.

The explanation of high-functioning depression is consistent with general psychological understanding, although it is important to note that HFD is not officially recognized in the DSM-5. The article accurately describes symptoms like anhedonia and avoidance behaviors, which are commonly associated with depression. The Five V’s methodology introduced by Dr. Joseph is presented as a practical approach, though further details on its scientific basis would enhance accuracy.

Overall, the story is precise in its portrayal of Dr. Joseph's views and the concept of HFD, but it could benefit from additional citations or references to the study and methodology mentioned.

Balance

The article provides a focused perspective centered on Dr. Joseph's views and research on high-functioning depression. While it offers a comprehensive insight into her approach and findings, it primarily presents a single viewpoint without contrasting opinions or perspectives from other experts in the field.

The lack of alternative viewpoints or critical analysis of Dr. Joseph's claims could suggest a slight imbalance. Including perspectives from other mental health professionals or researchers could have provided a more well-rounded discussion on high-functioning depression and its recognition in the medical community.

Despite this, the article does not exhibit overt favoritism or bias towards Dr. Joseph's work; it maintains a neutral tone throughout, focusing on her contributions without embellishment.

Clarity

The article is well-structured, with a logical flow that guides the reader through Dr. Joseph's background, the concept of high-functioning depression, and her proposed solutions. The language is clear and accessible, making complex psychological concepts understandable to a general audience.

The explanation of terms like anhedonia and the Five V’s is concise and informative, providing readers with a solid understanding of these concepts. The use of examples, such as the patient who rediscovered their love for nature, helps illustrate key points effectively.

While the article is mostly clear, it could include more details or links to external sources for readers interested in exploring the topic further. Nevertheless, the overall clarity and coherence of the article are strong, making it easy to follow and comprehend.

Source quality

The primary source of information in the article is Dr. Judith Joseph, whose credentials and professional background lend credibility to the story. Her roles at NYU Langone Medical Center and Columbia University provide authority to her insights on high-functioning depression.

However, the article relies heavily on Dr. Joseph's perspective without incorporating a broader range of sources. Additional input from other experts or references to peer-reviewed studies would enhance the reliability and depth of the reporting.

Despite this, Dr. Joseph's expertise in psychiatry and her active engagement in research and clinical practice support the article's credibility, making it a reliable source of information on her work and views.

Transparency

The article provides a clear overview of Dr. Joseph's work and the concept of high-functioning depression, but it lacks detailed transparency regarding the methodology and sources of her research. While it mentions her study and book, it does not provide specific references or links to the study or detailed explanations of the research process.

The story could improve transparency by disclosing more about the scientific basis of the Five V’s methodology and how it was developed. Additionally, mentioning any potential conflicts of interest, such as commercial interests related to her book, would enhance transparency.

Overall, while the article is clear in its presentation of Dr. Joseph's ideas, it could benefit from more explicit disclosure of the research methods and sources behind her claims.