If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the “right” things—showing up for work, taking care of everyone, checking all the boxes—but inside, you feel numb, disconnected, or just... not okay, this episode is for you.
This week on Be Well, Sis, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Judith Joseph, a board-certified psychiatrist and researcher, to talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: high functioning depression.
We often associate depression with what we see—sadness, withdrawal, tears. But what happens when it looks more like achievement, perfectionism, and over-functioning? When the pain hides behind productivity? That’s where this conversation begins.
Dr. Judith breaks down what high functioning depression actually is, why it’s often missed in clinical settings, and how trauma, societal pressure, and internalized expectations can all contribute to emotional burnout, anhedonia (the loss of joy), and disconnection.
She also introduces her powerful framework, the Five V’s to Thriving—a model that prioritizes validation, venting, values, vitals, and vision to support true emotional well-being.
In this episode, we explore:
Dr. Judith also speaks candidly about how mental wellness is deeply connected to relationships, rest, and reimagining what success and happiness truly mean—especially for Black women and women of color who are often taught to suppress their feelings to survive.
This episode is for you if:
About Dr. Judith Joseph:
Dr. Judith Joseph is a board-certified psychiatrist, media expert, and mental health advocate whose work bridges the gap between clinical research and culturally competent care. Her mission is to empower people—especially those in marginalized communities—to prioritize their mental wellness with evidence-based, heart-centered tools.
🔗 Learn more about here
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