Perfectly Hidden Depression- Perfectionism & Depression

Are you a perfectionist? Do you struggle to do everything perfect? In this episode with my guest Margaret Robinson Rutherford, PHhD., we discuss her book, Perfectly Hidden Depression(PHD), a book that describes how the perfectionist easily hides their depression... most importantly.....to themselves. We also discuss the relationship between perfectionism and depression. Here are some characteristics of Perfectly Hidden Depression. If you experience it, you likely... -Are highly perfectionistic and have constant, critical and shamming inner voice -Demonstrate a heightened or excessive sense of responsibility -Detach from painful emotions by staying in your head and actively shutting them off -May have an accompanying mental health issue, such as an eating disorder, anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder or addiction -Worry and need to control yourself and your environment We discuss how so many do not recognize the signs of their own depression such as lack of energy and sadness. Other people notice but they do not and it's because they hide it for fear of how others would judge them. After all, everyone should think all is perfect in their world. Admitting depression would be admitting a flaw. And if you're a perfectionist, flaws are to be hidden.