High Functioning

Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy

De: Judith Joseph, Mel Robbins - foreword

Narrado por: Judith Joseph, Mel Robbins

The first book to unmask the hidden face of depression. If you look fine on the outside but don't feel fine on the inside, learn five tools to break the cycle of High Functioning Depression and experience more joy in your life.

Many of us experience periods in our lives when something feels “off”: when we struggle to find joy in happy moments, and take little pleasure in things we used to enjoy. We might be motivated and productive at work, pulling our weight at home, and conducting a normal social life—but behind that façade we are barely surviving, and certainly not thriving.

We're all familiar with what depression can look like, but there's another, lesser‑known face to this illness. High functioning depression (HFD) doesn't conform to the image of depression that typically comes to mind. As a result, people with HFD often have no idea why they are suffering, or what to do about it.

In High Functioning, Dr. Judith Joseph reveals that what we’re feeling is not simply “negativity” or stress. Drawing on original research, client cases, and her personal experience with HFD, Dr. Judith radically shifts the way those of us with HFD see ourselves, and empowers us with five simple tools to reclaim our lives from this widespread yet poorly understood condition.

By following her 5 V's—validation, venting, values, vision, and vitals—we can wake up happier, find more satisfaction in our relationships, and feel better in the present while also looking forward to the future.

©2025 Judith Joseph (P)2025 Little, Brown Spark

Reseñas de la Crítica

"Dr. Judith Joseph offers a framework for what so many are feeling and just assume is “life.” She addresses the patterns we often miss because of the oft-mistaken belief that if am getting stuff done, then I am ok, and offers actionable and customizable guidance that can remind everyone to slow down, listen to themselves, and care for themselves. In a world where “busy” is too often a virtue, and we second-guess and devalue ourselves when we are struggling, Dr. Joseph opens us to a different way of thinking."—Dr. Ramani Durvasula, clinical psychologist, and New York Times Bestselling author of It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People

"If you’ve ever found yourself feeling “off” without being able to put your finger on why, or if you’re constantly busy but don’t find yourself fulfilled, you’re in the right place...This isn’t just a book. It’s a roadmap back to yourself"—Mel Robbins, New York Times bestselling author of The Let Them Theory

“Dr. Judith Joseph’s groundbreaking work on high-functioning depression is both timely and a much needed topic that needs a wider spotlight. As the first to deeply study this often-overlooked facet of mental health, Dr. Joseph sheds light on a condition that affects countless individuals striving to maintain outward success while grappling with inner challenges. Her compassionate approach, rigorous research, and insightful analysis make this book a must-read for professionals, loved ones, and anyone seeking to better understand the hidden struggles of those around them.”—Paul C. Brunson, author of Keep Love

New perspective

As a mental health professional, this book equips me with new insights and resources to improve my standards of care. Dr. Judith did a great job putting together so many years of research and experience into this incredible piece! Lovely voice! From a personal standpoint, it’s very eye opening on how to show up for myself in different ways especially having grown up as an immigrant. Already rereading this 🫣

A Breakthrough in Understanding my HFD and Masochistic Tendencies

I feel like this book was written for me. For years, I've struggled to articulate the disconnect between my success and inner turmoil, often leaving therapists perplexed by my seemingly contradictory experiences. This book has finally provided the insights, concepts, and, most importantly, actionable tools to understand and address my HFD and masochism.

"High Functioning" is validating and empowering. It offers hope and practical strategies. If you've ever felt like you're outwardly successful but inwardly struggling, please read this book. It could be the key to finally understanding yourself and reclaiming your joy. This is a five-star, life-changing read.

Excellent Book!

EXCELLENT BOOK!!! listening to the book felt as though I was listening to my life unfold with explanations of why I function the way that I do. In a strange way, the book made me feel understood. I needed this book 36 years ago. Recommended the book to my son and my friends that are mental health counselors.

Useful strategies you can implement immediately

I recommend this read if you’re “fine” or think you’re “fine” but have a lingering feeling maybe you’re not completely fine… and you want a doctor’s opinion. This book will give you many things to think about and helpful strategies to put into action.

Validation!

I am so grateful for this book because I finally feel validated in how I’ve been feeling for quite some time.

Total Game Changer

So nice to have a really great road map for how to deal with HFD. I do have some questions that I wish I could ask the author about. That's what this book does. It makes you reflect and be thoughtful about your life.

Wow!

Such a wonderful resource!! So beautifully written and articulate! I am a clinician, and I have gained so much insight! Thank you, Doctor!!

An eye-opener, a must read/listen for a healthcare professionals

This book shines a light on a very common but not often talked about issue that touches more lives than we know. A great tool for those that struggle with HFD or know someone who does. It makes you think. Highly recommend it!