High functioning suffering is one of the most invisible emotional epidemics of our time. It hides behind clean shirts, perfect smiles, timely emails, and people who never miss. These are the ones society praises the loudest, the dependable friend, the hardworking colleague, the strong sibling, the one who has it all together. But beneath the polished surface lies a quiet ache that grows heavier with every unspoken feeling. The world sees their performance, but never their pain. And because they
There is a kind of suffering that is so silent and so invisible that most people never notice it until the person living through it is completely burnt out. This suffering sits behind perfect smiles, well organized calendars, responsive emails, meeting deadlines, carrying responsibilities, and looking like everything in life is under control. It is called high functioning suffering, and it is destroying millions of lives quietly.
This is the kind of pain that hides behind performance. It hides behind the ability to stay productive. It hides behind stability. It hides behind the role of being the strong one. It hides behind perfection. It hides behind being dependable for everyone. It hides behind the identity of the person who must look like they have everything together.
The world has created a dangerous illusion that people who function well are okay. But functioning is not the same thing as being well. …
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Ian
I am a passionate software developer and mental health champion dedicated to using technology to create positive change. I love building solutions that make life easier while advocating for mental wellness, awareness, and support within communities. My goal is to inspire others to embrace innovation and take care of their minds along the way
