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 labelled as overachievers, but underneath, they are struggling with extreme stress and anxiety.
Chronic stress can make them in a state of mind that is difficult to control, sleep poorly, and affect their health. It's important to recognize that they need assistance, which is readily available through cognitive behavioral therapy as well as medication.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, but they are often overwhelmed by a nervous energy that they aren't able to control. They may appear professional and have a busy social life, but they are scared of failing at their job or slipping under the pressure from family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and continuously strive to achieve their goals. This constant stress is often masked by successes and achievements however it can be devastating to their mental and physical health.
Overachievers can also be reluctant to seek treatment for their conditions, as they fear that it could slow them down or hinder their career. They do not want to let anyone down particularly those who have praised their dedication to their work. It's nevertheless important to recognize that you suffer 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 such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to shift negative beliefs that fuel anxiety and teach clients ways 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 feelings, and to accept their failures.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, digestion issues, sleep disturbances, and a loss of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create an feeling of isolation. If you're an athlete, it is important to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common among people who suffer from high functioning anxiety disorder. They might think about conversations that continue long after the conversation is over, or worry about things that could go awry in an upcoming event. This can lead to chronic anxiety and stress. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People with high functioning anxiety can also be prone to hypochondria. This can cause them to overdiagnose health concerns and fear that they might be suffering from an illness that is serious.
These individuals set high goals and have high expectations of themselves. Despite the positive feedback they receive, they feel as though they're never achieving their goals and never getting to the point of the level of perfection. They're always working and testing their limits, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, those who have high functioning anxiety can improve their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough rest and eat nutritious meals. They should also stay away from caffeine and other stimulants that can cause anxiety-related symptoms. Additionally they can seek out support from others who have anxiety by taking part in group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step to treating high functioning anxiety. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These types of therapies can help people understand the connection between their feelings and thoughts. They can help them understand how they can change negative thought patterns and how to react to stressful situations more efficiently. In addition, those with high functioning anxiety can benefit from taking medication. This includes antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, and benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
A common symptom of high functioning anxiety is the lack of self-care. This can manifest in a variety of ways from not getting enough sleep to cutting out meals. It can also be a matter of avoiding places or people that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be difficult for someone with high functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, since they tend to see their anxiety as a positive trait, like perfectionism or fear of failing.
The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning could be a physical symptom, such as chronic migraines or digestive issues. It can be followed by a decrease in enthusiasm for hobbies, a decrease in work performance, or a constant sense of unease. If the symptoms persist it is essential to talk to a healthcare professional.
Even if symptoms appear moderate, it is crucial to treat them as warning signs. They should be a sign that you need to seek medical attention. For instance, a supervisor might find that constant stress is preventing him from sleeping and causing fatigue. Similarly, a student with high functioning anxiety may discover that they are losing too much sleep, and it's negatively impacting their performance.
You should also set appropriate boundaries for those who take up a lot of your time. This could include managers, family, and friends who would like you to take on more than you are able to handle. It could also be a matter of restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can cause anxiety-related symptoms.
Fortunately, people with high functioning anxiety can be treated the same way that other individuals with anxiety disorders are. This includes psychotherapy (talk therapy), lifestyle changes and, based on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This means practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and learning to avoid or challenge negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety have a knack of hiding their internal struggles. They may continue to perform their day-to-day tasks and appear to be successful but they might not be able to cope with the anxiety. Untreated, these feelings may become chronic. They can interfere with everyday activities. To alleviate these symptoms, it is essential to seek out support from others and practice stress management techniques. Writing, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to talk about your worries are all great strategies to fight these symptoms.
Anxiety is difficult to manage. It can cause many physical symptoms, including headaches, insomnia, stomach issues and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People with high functioning anxiety often experience difficulties in relaxing and have a hard time focusing on tasks at their disposal. They may also experience an overwhelming sense of self-doubt and fear that they are letting others down.
Some high-functioning anxiety patients are reluctant to seek mental health treatment, believing that they are "not sick enough" or do not merit the treatment. This is particularly relevant for those suffering from ACEs that can have a an impact on mental health.
However, seeking treatment can be beneficial for those suffering from high functioning anxiety as it helps them comprehend their anxiety and figure out how to manage it. Treatment options include talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients recognize and change their thinking patterns. It can teach them how to shift their thinking and discover solutions for the future worries they face.
Alcohol and drugs addiction
People who suffer from anxiety disorders that are high functioning often take alcohol and drugs as a way to self-medicate. They may also try to get relief by dietary changes or exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. But these strategies for coping are not an effective long-term solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and result in substance abuse disorders. They can also lead to other health issues, like heart problems and gastrointestinal distress.
Anxiety that is high-functioning is often seen as a positive trait. However, it can have serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that those who suffer from anxiety are at a greater risk of experiencing a heart event. They are more likely to suffer from gastrointestinal issues and sleep problems. High-functioning anxiety can also affect their performance at work. They may feel pressured to perform better than other people, which can lead to tension and stress. This could result in unhealthy habits such as binge-eating and drinking.
There isn't one solution to high functioning anxiety. However, certain strategies can be helpful. Meditation mindfulness, mindfulness and a healthy diet are some of the strategies that could help. Using a journal can also be beneficial to help you recognize patterns and triggers. It is also important to ensure that your stress levels are in control and seek professional assistance should you require it. Some people with high-functioning anxieties find it difficult to ask for help because they do not want to appear weak or unprofessional. There are a variety of mental resources, including online counseling, accessible. Some of these services are even free. They can be a worthy alternative to in-person treatment for those who aren't able to afford traditional services.