EP: 219

In this podcast episode, Dr. Judith Joseph discusses her career and insights into High-Functioning Depression (HFD). She defines HFD and distinguishes it from typical depression, sharing how her own struggles inform her research. Dr. Joseph reveals surprising findings from her studies and highlights the signs of HFD that often go unnoticed. She emphasizes the impact of unprocessed trauma and identifies specific demographics, that are more vulnerable to HFD. The episode also introduces the 5 V's from her book as essential tools for healing, addresses the effects of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, and explores the influence of societal norms on HFD recognition. Lastly, she offers practical steps for individuals to begin their healing journey towards reclaiming joy and fulfillment.

GUEST

Judith Joseph MD, MBA, https://www.instagram.com/drjudithjoseph

board-certified psychiatrist and researcher who specializes in mental health and trauma. She is chair of the women in medicine initiative at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, clinical assistant professor in child and adolescent psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Chief Investigator at Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, New York City’s Premier Clinical Research Site. Dr. Judith was awarded by the US House of Representatives with a 2023 Congress Proclamation Award for her social media advocacy and mental health research. In 2024 she was named a top 6 NAACP Mental Health Champion and a VeryWell Mind top 25 Thought leader. In 2024 She taught a Workplace Mental Health Course to The Executive Office Of The President of The United States of America.

In addition to being a notable public speaker at prestigious institutions, Dr. Judith is a sought after on-air expert who has been featured on Oprah Daily’s The Life You Want Series, Good Morning America, The Wendy Williams Show, Tamron Hall, Today Show, CNN News With Anderson Cooper, The Mel Robbins Podcast, and more. She recently received a 2020 and 2023 Share Care Award for her MedCircle series on PTSD and a Good Morning America investigative special on ADHD.

In HIGH FUNCTIONING: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy (On sale April 8, 2025; Little, Brown Spark; $30), Dr. Judith Joseph demystifies this widespread yet largely unrecognized form of depression that leaves individuals suffering in silence. While people with HFD seem fine outwardly, they are inwardly tormented by symptoms that include emotional detachment, apathy, overwhelming fatigue, anxiety, and compulsive overwork.

HOST

Olyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_

NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast