It is interesting to read about Andre Agassi’s depression. He was the number one tennis player in the world – what did he have to be depressed about?  And in the same vein, we have Michael Phelps the prolific Olympic gold medal swimmer. He finished on 23 gold medals. But he, too, was prone to depression.

Some studies have shown the super successful often suffer from clinical depression.

While they may have all the material things they could ever want, they still feel something is missing.

So what is clinical depression?

Also known as major depressive disorder, it is a mental health condition characterised by a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest.

Clinical depression can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms. It can interfere with the ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy activities that were once pleasurable.

Depression is relatively common in the general population, with an estimated prevalence of 7%. However, the prevalence of clinical depression among the super successful is believed to be much higher.

How is it top sportsmen or people as powerful and successful CEOs, can be so productive and still be depressed? The key may be “high-functioning” depression.

High-functioning depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder, is a form of clinical depression characterised by less severe symptoms. However, these symptoms persist for a longer period of time

Because symptoms of high-functioning depression are less severe than the typical symptoms of depression, those struggling with high-functioning depression can be struggling and no one else may even know. High-functioning depression can still interfere with the ability energy/motivation to function well at work or school and can cause relationship problems.

One study by professor of organisational psychology, Dr Valerie J Sutherland, found nearly 25% of CEOs suffer from depression. This is likely due to the high levels of stress and anxiety associated with their jobs.

As in all cases of depression, high functioning or not – if you are experiencing any form of depression – see someone.