Smiling Through the Struggle: Unmasking High Functioning Depression w/ Dr. Judith Joseph

Can someone seem totally fine — successful, social, high-achieving — and still be deeply struggling? Absolutely. In this eye-opening episode, psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph breaks down the concept of high functioning depression — a condition that often flies under the radar but affects so many people.

We talk about why this kind of depression is so often dismissed, and how societal pressure pushes people to keep going, even when they’re hurting inside. Dr. Joseph shares practical tools to spot the signs early, prioritize your mental health before it becomes a crisis, and create more joy in your daily life.

She also dives into what it means to understand your own unique mental health makeup — and how doing so can lead to real, lasting change.

🔑 What You’ll Learn:

• Why high functioning depression often goes unnoticed

• The power of preventative mental health care

• How people can be struggling even when they seem okay

• The impact of societal and cultural pressure on our well-being

• How to prioritize joy (yes, you can actually schedule it!)

• Why self-care is more than bubble baths — it’s knowing your needs

• That happiness isn’t a destination — it’s made up of small, joyful moments

• The importance of checking in on friends who “have it all together”

Dr. Joseph’s work is a powerful reminder that we all deserve to feel seen, supported, and well — not just to function, but to thrive.

✨ Learn more about Dr. Judith Joseph:

• Website: drjudithjoseph.com

• Instagram: @drjudithjoseph

• Her new book: The High Functioning Book

🎧 Listen now and share this one with a friend who might need to hear it. You never know who’s quietly carrying a heavy load.