High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They may appear to be happy and content, or even be called overachievers. But underneath, they are struggling with anxiety and stress.
Chronic stress can make them in a state of mind that is difficult to control or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It is important to recognize the need for help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication are available.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a state where people can accomplish their tasks and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a nervous energy they can't manage. They may appear professional and have an active social life, but they are scared of falling short in their work or falling apart under the pressure from friends and family. They do not allow themselves to rest and continuously strive to be the best they can be. The constant anxiety can be hidden by their successes and accomplishments but it can be devastating for their mental and physical health.
Overachievers are also unwilling to take care of their health issues due to the fear that it will slow them or damage their career. They don't want to let anyone down, especially those who have praised them for their efforts. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that you suffer from anxiety that is high-functioning and know that it can be treated.
Talk therapy and medications can help people manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to change the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety. They also teach clients how to lessen their negative strategies for coping. People with high-functioning anxieties often take on criticism and react in a way that is overly emotional. A therapy therapist can assist them in learning to manage their emotions and to accept failure.
Anxiety can lead to self-doubt digestive issues, sleep disturbances and a loss in motivation. It can also destroy relationships and cause a feeling of isolation. If you're a high-achieving person it is essential to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common among those who suffer from high functioning anxiety disorder. They might ponder conversations long after they have ended or worry about issues that could go wrong in an future event. This can cause chronic stress and anxiety. It can also interfere in the quality of sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This could cause to them to overdiagnose their health and worry they have a serious illness.
These individuals have high expectations for themselves and set extremely demanding goals. Despite the positive feedback they receive they feel that they are always failing and never getting to the point of perfection. They work constantly and are pushing themselves beyond their limits which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
People with high functioning anxiety who are not in therapy can improve their coping capabilities by managing their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough sleep and adhere to a healthy diet. They should also stay away from caffeine and other stimulants that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions may aid in finding assistance from other people who are suffering from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is often the first step to treat anxiety that is high functioning, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of treatments can aid people in understanding the relationship between their feelings and thoughts. They can show them how to alter negative thinking patterns and how to respond to stressful situations more efficiently. People with high functioning anxiety may also benefit from medication. This includes antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, and benzodiazepines to provide short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
Lack of self-care is a sign of anxiety that is high functioning. This can take many forms including not getting enough sleep to cutting out meals. It could also be about avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety symptoms. It can also be difficult for someone with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they need help, as they may view their anxiety as a positive trait such as perfectionists or fear of failure.
The first sign of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom that is chronic migraines or digestive issues. This can be accompanied by a lack of interest in activities or work or the feeling of being uneasy on a regular basis. If these symptoms persist it is important to talk to a health professional.
Even if the symptoms appear mild it is important to treat them as warning signs and an indication to seek treatment. For instance, a supervisor might notice that constant anxiety keeps him awake and contributing to fatigue. A student with high functioning anxiety may discover that they are losing too much sleep and this is impacting their grades.
It is also important to establish healthy boundaries with those in your life who require lots of time from you. This includes family members, friends, or managers who demand you to do more than you can manage. It could also mean restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
People who have high functioning anxiety can benefit from the same treatment that is available to people suffering from anxiety disorders . This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) as well as lifestyle changes, and medications, depending on their severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Lack of social support
Many people who suffer from high functioning anxiety are adept at hiding their inner struggles. They may continue to perform their everyday tasks and appear to be successful but they might not be able cope with the anxiety. If they are not treated, these feelings can eventually become debilitating and interfere with daily functions. To alleviate these symptoms, it is important to seek social support and employ stress management techniques. Writing, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to talk about your worries are all excellent methods to manage these symptoms.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage. It can cause many physical symptoms, such as restlessness, headaches, digestive problems, and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety may have difficulty in focusing and relaxing for the task at hand. They may also feel an unending feeling of self-doubt, or worry that they are letting others down.
In some cases those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to recognize their need for mental health treatment because they believe that they aren't "sick enough" or are not worthy of it. This is especially the case for people suffering from ACEs that can have a an impact on mental health.
However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for sufferers of high functioning anxiety because it helps them better comprehend their anxiety and figure out how to cope with it. Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are all options to treat. CBT helps patients identify and change their thinking patterns. It can teach them how to reframe thoughts and find solutions for the future worries they have.
The use of alcohol and drugs
Self-medicating through alcohol and other drugs is common among people who have high functioning anxiety. Other methods of relief include diet and exercise, or decaf coffee. These coping mechanisms don't provide a lasting solution. They can actually increase their anxiety symptoms and can cause addiction disorders. Additionally, they may cause other health issues including heart issues and stomach distress.
High-functioning anxiety is often seen as an excellent trait. However, it can have serious consequences. According to research, those who experience anxiety are more likely to have an increased risk of suffering a heart attack. They are more likely to suffer from digestive issues and sleep issues. The high-functioning anxiety can also affect their performance at work. They may feel the need to perform better than other people and this can lead to tension and stress. This could result in unhealthy habits such as binge-eating and drinking.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to manage anxiety that is high functioning however, certain strategies could aid. Meditation, mindfulness, and an appropriate diet are just a few of the strategies that may help. Using a journal can also be beneficial in helping you spot patterns and triggers. In the end, it is important 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 a variety of mental resources, including online counseling, available. Some of these services might even be free. They are a viable alternative to in-person therapy for those who aren't able to afford traditional services.