High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from high functioning anxiety. They might appear to have their lives together--or even be labeled as overachievers--but underneath, they struggle with anxiety and stress.
Chronic stress can make them incapable of putting their thoughts to rest or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It is important to recognize the need for help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are available.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a state where individuals can accomplish their tasks and meet deadlines, but are engulfed by a fearful energy they cannot control. They appear professional and live a full social life, but inside they fear that they'll fail at their jobs or crumble under the pressure of their family and friends. They never take time to relax, and strive to be the best at what they do. The constant anxiety can be masked by successes and achievements but it can be detrimental to their mental and physical health.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek assistance for their health issues because they fear it will hinder or harm their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their work. However, it's crucial to recognize that you suffer from anxiety that is high-functioning and know that it can be treated.
disorders anxiety and medication can help patients manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and teach clients ways to decrease their negative strategies for coping. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety tend to overreact to criticism and internalize it, so they need a therapist to teach them how to manage their feelings and accept failing.
Anxiety can cause self-doubt, sleep disturbances, digestive issues and a loss of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create an isolation. If you're a high-achiever it's crucial to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorders are often prone to overthinking. They might ponder conversations that have not concluded or worry about the issues that could go wrong in an future event. This can lead to constant anxiety and stress. It can also affect sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also prone to hypochondria, which can cause them to misdiagnose health problems and fear that they might be suffering from a serious illness.
They have high expectations of themselves and set high-stakes goals. Despite the positive feedback they receive they feel like they are always failing and will never reach the level of perfection. They are always working and pushing themselves beyond their limits and can lead to burnout and exhaustion.
In addition to therapy, people who suffer from high functioning anxiety can improve their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For instance, they should try to get enough rest and eat an appropriate diet. They should also avoid caffeine and other stimulants that can cause anxiety-related symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions may also help them find assistance from other people who suffer from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is typically the first step to treat high functioning anxiety, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapy are able to aid people in understanding how their thoughts and emotions are linked. They can also help them learn how to change negative thinking patterns and react to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines can be utilized to alleviate acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
A common symptom of anxiety with high functioning is a lack of self-care. This can manifest in a variety of ways from not getting enough sleep to skipping meals. This can also include avoiding people or situations that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It is often difficult for someone who suffers from high functioning anxiety to recognize that they require help, as they often view their anxiety as positive traits like perfectionism or fear.
The first sign of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom like chronic migraines or digestive issues. This may be associated with an absence of enthusiasm for activities or work or the feeling of being uneasy on a regular basis. If these symptoms persist it is essential to consult a medical professional.
Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is essential to consider them warning signs. They should be a sign that you require medical treatment. For example, a manager might notice that constant anxiety keeps him awake and leading to fatigue. A student with high functioning levels of anxiety could notice that they're losing too much sleep, which could adversely affect their academic performance.
It is also important to set healthy boundaries with people in your life who demand a lot of time from you. This could include family members, friends, and managers who would like you to do more than you are able to manage. It could also be a matter of the restriction of stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment that is available to people suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medications according to the severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and the ability to challenge or avoid negative self-talk.
Lack of social support
Many people with high functioning anxiety have a knack of hiding their internal struggles. They may continue to complete their day-to-day tasks and appear to be doing well however they may not be able to deal with the anxiety. If left untreated these issues can become debilitating and interfere with the daily activities. To combat these symptoms, it's essential to seek out support from others and practice stress management techniques. These include journaling, avoiding caffeine, and joining an online support group to discuss your worries with other people.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage. It can trigger various physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach issues, and fatigue. In addition, it may affect how you sleep. People who have high levels of anxiety may have difficulty getting their attention off the task at being done. They may also feel a constant sense of self-doubt and fear that they are letting others down.
In some cases, high-functioning anxiety sufferers struggle to recognize their need for mental health treatment because they feel that they aren't "sick enough" or are not worthy of it. This is especially relevant for those suffering from ACEs, which can have lasting effects on mental health.
Treatment can be beneficial to anxious people who have high functioning, as it helps them be more aware of their anxiety and understand how to cope with it. Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications like selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs) are all options to treat. CBT helps patients alter their thinking patterns and understand their distortions. It can help them learn to shift their thinking and discover solutions to the problems they face.
Drugs and alcohol addiction
Self-medicating through alcohol and other drugs is common for people who suffer from high functioning anxieties. Other methods of relief include diet, exercise or decaf coffee. But these strategies for coping are not an effective long-term solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and lead to substance abuse disorders. They can also cause other health issues, like heart problems and gastrointestinal distress.
The presence of anxiety in high-functioning individuals can appear to be an advantage. However, it has serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that those who suffer from anxiety are at a higher risk of having a cardiac event. They are more likely to suffer from gastrointestinal issues and sleep issues. High-functioning anxiety may affect their work performance. They may feel pressured to perform better than other people, which can lead to tension and stress. This can cause unhealthy behaviors such as binge-eating and drinking.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to manage anxiety that is high functioning However, some strategies can help. Meditation mindfulness, mindfulness and eating a healthy diet are a few of the strategies that could help. A journal can be useful to help you identify patterns and triggers. Also, you must try to ensure that your stress levels are under control and seek out professional therapy if you need. People with high-functioning anxiety are hesitant to ask for assistance because they do not want to appear weak or unprofessional. There are many mental resources, such as online counseling that is available. Some of these services could even be completely free. These services are an excellent alternatives to traditional in-person treatments for those who are unable to afford them.