677: Why High Functioning People Can’t Slow Down (and How to Reclaim Joy) with Dr. Judith Joseph

September 5, 2025 in Podcast, Women’s Health 0

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Episode Summary

You know when you feel like you’re constantly going through the motions between work, family, and endless responsibilities—but inside, everything feels flat? That’s the reality of high-functioning depression.

In this episode, I’m joined by the talented psychiatrist, author, and nationally recognized expert in women’s mental health, Dr. Judith Joseph, to unpack what high-functioning depression really is.

We dive into the secret signs of high-functioning depression, especially in midlife, and why it often goes unnoticed in women who seem to have it all together.

Dr. Joseph shares powerful strategies and practical tools to help you move from surviving to truly thriving. We also discuss how to recognize when a loved one might be struggling behind the mask of success—and how to offer meaningful support.

If you feel emotionally drained despite keeping it all together on the outside, this episode will give you the clarity you need for more happiness in your life.

Dr. Judith Joseph, MD MBA

Dr. Judith Joseph is a psychiatrist, researcher, award-winning content creator, and author of the National Bestselling book “High Functioning, Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy”. Dr. Judith was named as a 2024 Black Health Hero by PopSugar Inc. She was also named a 2024 VeryWell Mind Top 25 Mental Health Thought Leader and a 2024 NAACP Top 6 Mental Health Champion.

IN THIS EPISODE

Warning signs for high-functioning depression in midlife
Understanding the science of happiness
Most common symptoms of high-functioning depression
Why many high-functioning people have trouble slowing down
The difference between happiness and joy
Strategies for navigating high-functioning depression
How to support a loved one with high-functioning depression

QUOTES

“People who go through perimenopause and menopause often mask how they feel just to show up for the job and for others. So they often have this underlying high-functioning depression that is made worse [from] hormonal fluctuations.”

“Gratitude practices are really helpful in staving off high-functioning depression or sustaining your joy. It’s hard to be grateful when you don’t know what brings you joy.”

“Don’t give up. You may feel hopeless, but know that there’s always something you have not tried. There’s always hope. That’s why I like the idea of support groups, because many times you not only help others with your story, but you also learn from other people.”