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 called overachievers. But underneath, they struggle with severe stress and anxiety.
panic anxiety disorder can't stop thinking, they may not sleep well and their health suffers due to chronic stress. It's important to recognize that they need assistance, which is accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a condition in which people are able to work and meet deadlines but are overwhelmed by a fearful energy they cannot manage. They may appear professional and have a busy social life, but they are scared of failing in their job or slipping under the pressure of friends and family. They never take time to rest, and they strive to be the best at what they do. This constant anxiety can be masked by their successes and achievements but can be devastating for their physical and mental health.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek assistance for their condition because they fear it could hinder or harm their career. They don't wish to disappoint anyone, particularly those who have praised their work. It's crucial to realize that you have high-functioning anxiousness and that it is able to be treated.
The use of medication and talk therapy can assist people in managing their symptoms. Therapists use techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to change irrational belief that feed anxiety, and also teach clients to lessen their negative coping mechanism. People with high-functioning anxiety often react to criticism internally and then overreact. A therapist can help them learn to manage their emotions, and to accept failure.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, digestive issues, sleep disturbances and a loss of motivation. It can also eat away at relationships and create a sense of loneliness. If you're a high achiever, it is important to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People with high functioning anxiety disorders are more likely to think too much. They might ponder conversations that continue long after the conversation has ended, or worry about things that could go wrong in an upcoming situation. This can lead to anxiety and stress that lasts for a long time. 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 be concerned that they may be suffering from a serious illness.
These individuals set high goals and have high expectations of themselves. They believe that they will never achieve perfection, despite the positive feedback. They are constantly working and pushing themselves to the limits, which can result in burnout and exhaustion.
In addition to therapy, individuals who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning can improve their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For instance, they should try to get enough sleep and adhere to nutritious meals. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. In addition, they can seek support from people who are suffering from anxiety by taking part in group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step towards combating anxiety with high functioning. This includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of therapies can help people to understand the connection between their thoughts and feelings. They can also help them learn how to alter negative thought patterns and react to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning may benefit from medication. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines can be utilized to alleviate acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
One of the most common signs of anxiety that is high functioning is the lack of self-care. This can come in many forms, from not getting enough rest to skipping meals. It can also be about avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety. It can be difficult for people with high functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, since they often view their anxiety as positive characteristics such as perfectionists or fear of failing.
The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom, such as chronic migraines or digestive issues. It can also be accompanied by an absence of interest in hobbies or work or a constant feeling of unease. If these symptoms persist, it's important to speak to a doctor.
Even if symptoms appear mild, it is important to treat them as red flags. They are a signal that you should seek medical treatment. For instance, a manager may find that constant worry keeps him awake and contributing to fatigue. Students with high functioning levels of anxiety might notice that they're losing too much sleep, which can affect their grades.
It is also important to establish appropriate boundaries for those who take up lots of your time. This can include family members, friends, and managers who want you do more than you are able to handle. It could also be a matter of the restriction of stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
Fortunately, people with high functioning anxiety can be treated the same way that others suffering from anxiety disorders are, through psychotherapy (talk therapy) as well as lifestyle modifications and, depending on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This includes practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or engaging in self-talk that is negative.
Lack of social support
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety are skilled at concealing their internal struggles. They carry on with their obligations and appear successful on outside, but may be unable to cope with the anxiety they feel. If not addressed these issues can become chronic and hinder the daily activities. To help combat these symptoms, it is essential to seek out support from others and implement stress management strategies. Journaling, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to talk about your concerns are all good strategies to fight these symptoms.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage and may cause a wide range of physical symptoms including restlessness, muscle tension, digestive problems headaches, fatigue, and restlessness. In addition, it can affect your sleep. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often experience difficulty relaxing and have a hard time focusing on tasks at their disposal. They may also feel an unending feeling of self-doubt or fear that they have let others down.
In some instances people with high-functioning anxiety struggle to accept their need for treatment for mental health because they feel that they are not "sick enough" or don't deserve the treatment. This is especially true for people with ACEs (adverse childhood experiences), which can have lasting effects on mental health.
However, seeking treatment can be beneficial for high functioning anxiety sufferers because it helps them better understand their anxiety and how to cope with it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with medication like selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options to treat. CBT helps patients identify and alter their thinking patterns. It can also help them to reframe their thoughts and discover solutions to concerns they have about the future.
Drugs and alcohol addiction
People suffering with anxiety that is high functioning frequently use drugs and alcohol as a way to self-medicate. They may also try to seek relief through diet changes, exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. However, these coping mechanisms are not an effective long-term solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and result in substance abuse disorders. Additionally, they may lead to other health problems, such as heart issues and digestive discomfort.
High-functioning anxiety may appear to be a positive trait. However, it has grave consequences. According to researchers, those who are anxious are more likely to have a higher risk of having an attack on their heart. They are also more likely to experience digestive issues and may have difficulty sleeping. Stress can also impact their performance at work. They may feel a desire to perform better than others, which can cause tension and stress. This can also result in unhealthy habits such as binge-eating and drinking.
There isn't a universal solution to treat high functioning anxiety, but some strategies may aid. Some include meditating, focusing on mindfulness and a healthy diet. Journals can be beneficial to help you identify patterns and triggers. It is also important to ensure that your stress levels are in control and seek professional assistance if necessary. It can be difficult for someone suffering from anxiety that is high-functioning to seek help because they don't want to be seen as weak or a failure. Fortunately, there are many mental health resources available that offer online counseling. Some of these services are even free. These services can be an excellent alternative to traditional in-person therapies for those who cannot afford them.