I received an advanced copy of High Functioning by Dr. Judith Joseph, and I think it’s a great starter book for anyone who suspects they might be struggling with high-functioning depression. Sometimes, I think people believe they aren't depressed because they don’t fit the stereotypical “can’t get out of bed” image we so often see in movies.

So many people are going through life feeling “off”: they’re functioning at work, keeping up appearances socially, and checking all the boxes, but inside, they’re drained, disconnected, and overwhelmed. That’s what makes high-functioning depression (HFD) so tricky—it hides in plain sight. This book does an excellent job of naming and normalizing that experience.

What I especially appreciated was Dr. Joseph’s approach to treatment. Her 5 V’s—validation, venting, values, vision, and vitals—felt like a fresh, accessible twist on concepts you might’ve encountered in CBT, DBT, or ACT, which many people with depression have already tried. The framework is simple without oversimplifying, leaving room for personal reflection and application in daily life.

She weaves together client stories, her own experiences, and clinical insights in a way that’s compassionate and non-clinical. If you’re someone who feels like you're doing fine on paper but you're quietly struggling to find joy, connection, or purpose, this book might just be the nudge you need to start making sense of it all.

High Functioning by Judith Joseph is a compelling and insightful exploration of what it truly means to be "high functioning" in today’s fast-paced world. Blending psychological expertise with relatable real-life examples, Joseph unpacks the complexities of high-achievers who appear to have it all together while privately struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion.

The book is both informative and engaging, offering a mix of research-backed insights and practical strategies for managing mental health while maintaining a demanding lifestyle. Joseph’s writing is clear and accessible, making complex psychological concepts easy to understand. At times, some sections feel a bit surface-level, leaving readers wanting a deeper dive into certain topics, but overall, the book is a valuable resource for anyone navigating the pressures of success.

If you're looking for a thoughtful and encouraging read on balancing achievement with well-being, High Functioning is definitely worth picking up!

Very relatable with practical advice. The book acknowledges that even high-achievers face internal battles. It's not just about people who are obviously struggling. Joseph provides tools and strategies for managing stress, setting healthy boundaries, and dealing with negative thought patterns. This isn't just theory; it's about actionable steps.

Judith Joseph’s book, High Functioning, allows people to realize what they’ve been feeling may be more than just stress or negativity. Depression is often looked at in a certain way, but what about the people who look fine but are not feeling right inside? The second part of the books talks about the 5 V’s: validation, venting, values, vision, and vitals. By using the 5 V’s Joseph believes we can become happier.. I would recommend this book to anyone who struggles with depression or anyone who is interested in mental health.

Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is a must read for everyone who uses phrases like “I’m so busy” or “I don’t have time to sleep, eat or even take a bathroom break!” But it’s also a must read for anyone who struggles to find the joy in things but still manage to function in their job, their family and life in general. Judith Joseph tells us in this book that not all depression is about being sad. And then she gives some extremely valuable insights into the what, why and how to overcome a diagnosis of high functioning depression.
I personally see myself as a medium functioning depressed person! However, I found this book very informative, enlightening and easy to read. The practical tasks were laid out simply, although don’t be fooled that they won’t be tough to accomplish. This book is about recognizing negative patterns and working towards breaking them.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me this ARC. I feel encouraged to take control of my emotions and bad habits and find my joy again.

I could not find this on goodreads to leave a review.

I throughly enjoyed reading and reviewing this book and I am very grateful for the opportunity. This book gave me a lot of insight into my depression and how I seem to function when I am going through a depressive episode. While this is no way a way to diagnose oneself and should not be seen at that, it is a good tool to help analyze your situation and could help a lot of people.

I rated this book a 4/5 as I could see myself potentially recommending it to someone to read if they seem to be dealing with a situation similar.

Thank you once again for this opportunity!

Engaging and accessible. A recommended purchase for collections where self help and psychology are popular.

In High Functioning, Dr. Judith Joseph unpacks a hidden mental health epidemic that millions experience but few recognize. High-functioning depression can look like success on the outside while masking profound inner struggles with guilt, anhedonia, and self-sabotage. Drawing on her groundbreaking research, clinical experience, and personal journey, Dr. Joseph offers a clear pathway to healing and rediscovery. Through relatable stories, practical exercises, and her Five V’s framework, this book empowers readers to unmask their inner struggles, reclaim their joy, and build lives that reflect their deepest values. Honest and compassionate, High Functioning challenges the cultural narrative that achievement equals worth and encourages readers to prioritize well-being over relentless productivity. Whether you’re seeking balance, clarity, or a renewed sense of purpose, this book offers the tools and insights to help you thrive. It’s a must-read for anyone ready to embrace their true selves and step into a more authentic, fulfilling life.