Anxiety is a common mental health condition, but did you know it can manifest in different ways? One of the more subtle forms is high-functioning anxiety. Unlike other forms of anxiety that may be more visibly disruptive, high-functioning anxiety often goes unnoticed because individuals who experience it are usually able to appear calm, composed, and in control on the outside. However, on the inside, they may be battling a constant storm of worry, overthinking, and self-doubt.
What is High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety refers to a condition where a person experiences anxiety symptoms but is still able to meet their responsibilities and appear successful in their personal and professional life. People with this type of anxiety often keep up with their obligations while quietly struggling with stress, nervousness, and perfectionism. While they may not exhibit the typical outward signs of anxiety, they are still deeply affected by it.
Common Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety
Recognizing the signs of high-functioning anxiety is crucial, especially since it is easy to overlook or dismiss. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Perfectionism People with high-functioning anxiety often set unrealistically high standards for themselves. They may feel intense pressure to perform flawlessly, which can lead to burnout or self-criticism when things don't go perfectly.
Overthinking and Worrying A constant stream of “what-if” scenarios fills the mind of someone with high-functioning anxiety. They may spend hours thinking about what could go wrong in any given situation, and this excessive worrying can interfere with their peace of mind.
Constant Need for Control Those with high-functioning anxiety often feel the need to control every aspect of their environment. They may micromanage projects, relationships, and their personal lives in an attempt to maintain a sense of security, even if it causes stress.
Difficulty Saying No People with this condition often overcommit themselves because they fear letting others down. They may have difficulty setting boundaries and often take on too many responsibilities, leading to exhaustion and anxiety.
Physical Symptoms While high-functioning anxiety may not be outwardly visible, it often comes with physical symptoms such as tightness in the chest, headaches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. These physical signs are often the body's response to ongoing stress.
Need for Validation Many individuals with high-functioning anxiety seek constant validation from others to feel secure. They may crave approval from their peers, supervisors, or family members, and this need for external reassurance can feed their anxiety.
Difficulty Relaxing A common trait of high-functioning anxiety is the inability to truly relax. Even in downtime, the mind may be racing with thoughts about tasks that need to be completed or worries about the future.
How to Seek Help for High-Functioning Anxiety
If you identify with any of these signs, it’s important to acknowledge that you don’t have to handle high-functioning anxiety alone. Seeking help is an essential step towards managing and reducing anxiety. Here are a few ways to begin:
Talk to a Mental Health Professional One of the best ways to start addressing high-functioning anxiety is to consult with a therapist or counselor. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a proven treatment method for anxiety and can help you learn how to manage your thoughts and reactions to stress.
Develop Coping Strategies Therapy can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and relaxation methods. These strategies can help reduce the physical and mental toll of anxiety.
Practice Self-Compassion Individuals with high-functioning anxiety often struggle with self-criticism. Learning to be kinder to yourself and accepting that perfection is impossible can help reduce the intensity of anxiety. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes and take breaks.
Build a Support System Talking to trusted friends or family members about your struggles can provide emotional support. Sometimes, just knowing that others understand can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
Set Realistic Expectations Learning to set healthy boundaries and recognizing when to say no is essential. Avoid overcommitting yourself and be realistic about what you can handle. Allow yourself the grace to prioritize your well-being.
Consider Medication In some cases, medication prescribed by a doctor can help manage anxiety. If you feel your symptoms are overwhelming, speak with a healthcare provider about whether medication could be a helpful addition to your treatment plan.
High-functioning anxiety may not always be immediately noticeable, but its impact on a person’s mental and physical health is very real. Recognizing the signs and seeking help is key to breaking the cycle of anxiety and living a more balanced, peaceful life. If you’re struggling, know that you are not alone—and there is help available.
If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues, please give us a call today at 833-479-0797.
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