High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of individuals struggle with anxiety that is high-functioning. They may appear to be happy and content, or even be labeled as overachievers--but underneath, they are struggling with severe stress and anxiety.
Chronic stress can cause them to be in a state of mind that is difficult to control or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It's crucial to recognize that they require help, and it's readily available through cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, yet they're often engulfed by a nervous energy that they can't manage. They appear professional and have an active social life, but they are scared of failing in their job or slipping under the pressure from friends and family. They are never able to relax, and strive to be the best at what they do. This constant stress can be masked by their achievements and successes but can be devastating for their physical and mental health.
Overachievers can also be unwilling to seek treatment for their conditions, as they fear that it will hinder them or damage their career. They do not want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised them for their efforts. However, it's crucial to recognize that you're suffering from anxiety that is high-functioning and know that it can be treated.
Therapy and medication can help patients manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and help clients learn to reduce their negative coping mechanisms. People with high-functioning anxieties often internalize criticism and overreact. A therapist can help them learn to manage their emotions and to accept failure.
Anxiety can cause self-doubt and can cause insomnia, digestive issues and a lack motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create an feeling of isolation. If you're a high-achiever it's crucial to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorder tend to be overthinking. They might ponder conversations even after the conversation has ended, or fret about details that could go awry in a forthcoming event. This can lead to constant stress and anxiety. It can also impact sleep and concentration. People who have high-functioning anxiety are also more likely to hypochondria. This could cause them to overdiagnose their health and worry they may have a serious health issue.
These individuals have high expectations of themselves and set high-stakes goals. They feel that they'll never achieve perfection, regardless of the positive feedback. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limit and can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
People with high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy can enhance their coping abilities by managing their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough rest and eat a healthy diet. They should also avoid caffeine and other stimulants, which can cause anxiety-related symptoms. Additionally they can seek out support from others who have anxiety by attending therapy sessions in groups.
Psychotherapy is the first step in combating anxiety with high functioning. This includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These types of treatments can help people understand the connection between their thoughts and feelings. social anxiety disorder treatment can show them how they can modify negative thoughts and how to respond to stressful situations more effectively. People with high functioning anxiety can benefit from taking medication. This could include antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, and benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Lack of self-care
Lack of self-care is a hallmark of anxiety disorders that are high functioning. This can take many forms including not getting enough sleep to skipping meals. It can also mean avoiding people or situations that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be a challenge for someone with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they need help, as they often view their anxiety as a positive trait such as perfectionists or fear of failing.
Often, the first indication that a person has anxiety that is high functioning is physical, such as chronic headaches or digestive issues. This may be accompanied by an absence of interest in hobbies or work or an uneasy feeling that is constant. If these symptoms persist it is crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.
Even if the symptoms are mild, it is important to recognize them as red flags. They are a signal that you require medical attention. For instance an executive might find that their constant stress is hindering their sleep and causing fatigue and a weakened immune system. Similarly, a student with high functioning anxiety might find that they're losing too much sleep and this is affecting their academic performance.
It is also essential to set healthy boundaries with those in your life who require an excessive amount of time from you. This could include family members, managers, or friends who want you to do more than you're able to handle. Eliminating stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, which can cause anxiety symptoms may also aid.
Fortunately, people suffering from high functioning anxiety can be helped in the same way as people with anxiety disorders are, through psychotherapy (talk therapy) as well as lifestyle changes and, depending on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This can include practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at hiding their internal struggles. They carry on with their life's responsibilities and appear successful on outside, but may be struggling to manage their anxiety-related feelings. If left untreated these issues can become chronic and hinder everyday activities. To help combat these symptoms, it is crucial to seek out social support and employ stress management techniques. Writing, avoiding coffee, and joining support groups to talk about your worries are all excellent ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety can be a challenge to manage and may cause a wide range of physical symptoms, including restlessness muscular tension, digestive issues, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, it may affect your sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety have difficulty getting their attention off the task at hand. They might also feel a constant sense of self-doubt or fear that they've let others down.
Some high-functioning anxiety patients are not inclined to seek mental health treatment, believing that they are "not sick enough" or do not deserve the care. This is especially relevant for those suffering from ACEs, which can have an impact on mental health.
Treatment is beneficial to anxious people who have high functioning, as it helps them better understand their anxiety and learn how they can cope with it. Treatment choices include therapy for talk, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients identify and change their thinking patterns. It can also teach the patient to reframe their thinking and find solutions to the worries they have about the future.
Addiction to alcohol and drugs
People suffering with anxiety that is high functioning frequently take alcohol and drugs to help themselves cope. Other options for relief include dietary changes, exercise or decaf coffee. However, these coping strategies are not the best long-term solution. They can actually exacerbate their anxiety symptoms and lead to substance use disorders. Additionally, they could lead to other health problems including heart issues and stomach discomfort.
The presence of anxiety in high-functioning individuals can appear to be a positive trait. However, it can also have serious consequences. According to researchers, those who are anxious are more likely to have a higher risk of suffering a heart attack. They are more likely to suffer from gastrointestinal problems and sleep issues. Anxiety that is high-functioning can affect their work performance. They may feel a need to perform better than other people, which can cause tension and stress. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as binge-eating or drinking.
There isn't a universal solution to manage anxiety that is high functioning however, certain strategies could aid. Some of them include meditation, practicing mindfulness and eating a balanced diet. A journal can be useful to identify patterns and triggers. Also, you must try to ensure that your stress levels are in check and seek professional therapy if you need. Certain people who have high-functioning anxiety find it difficult to ask for assistance because they do not want to appear weak or incompetent. There are many mental resources, such as online counseling, accessible. Some of these services are free. They could be a great alternative to in-person therapy for individuals who are unable to afford traditional services.