high functioning anxiety disorder (resource for this article)

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 extreme stress and anxiety.

They don't stop thinking and they might not sleep well, and their health suffers due to chronic stress. It is crucial to acknowledge the need for help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are available.

Overachievers

High functioning anxiety is a condition where people can be productive and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a fearful energy that they are unable to control. They present a professional exterior and live a full social life, but inside they fear that they'll fail at their jobs or fall apart under the pressure of their family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and constantly strive for perfection. This constant anxiety can be masked by their successes and achievements but it can be a disaster for their mental and physical well-being.

Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek assistance for their conditions because they fear it will slow them down or damage their career. They aren't looking to disappoint anyone particularly those who have praised their dedication to their work. It's crucial to realize that you are suffering from anxiety with high-functioning and that it is able to be treated.

Therapy and medication can assist people in managing their symptoms. Therapists use techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to alter irrational belief that feed anxiety, and also teach clients how to manage their negative coping mechanism. People who have high-functioning anxiety tend to take on criticism and react in a way that is overly emotional. A counselor can help them learn to manage their emotions and accept the failure.

Anxiety can lead to self-doubt and can cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems, and a lack of motivation. It can also cause a breakdown in relationships and cause an isolation. If you're a high-achiever, it's essential to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.

Overthinking

People who suffer from high functioning anxiety disorders are characterised by disorders are often prone to overthinking. They might ponder conversations even after the conversation has ended, or obsess about details that could go awry in a future event. This can cause chronic anxiety and stress. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety can also be prone to hypochondria. This could cause them to misdiagnose health problems and fear that they might be suffering from an illness that is serious.

They set themselves high-level goals and have high expectations of themselves. They are convinced that they'll never achieve perfection, despite the positive feedback. They work constantly and are pushing themselves beyond their limits and can lead to burnout and exhaustion.

People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy may improve their coping skills by addressing their symptoms. They should, for example, try to get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants that may increase anxiety symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions may also help them find assistance from other people who suffer from anxiety.

Psychotherapy is the first step in treating high functioning anxiety. This includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapies can aid people in understanding the relationship between their feelings and thoughts. They can also teach them how to change negative thought patterns and respond to stressful situations in more effective ways. Additionally, people who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from taking medication. This includes antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, as well as benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.

Lack of self-care

Self-care deficiency is a sign of high functioning anxiety. This can come in many forms, from not getting enough sleep to skipping meals. It can also mean avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety symptoms. It can also be difficult for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, as they often view their anxiety as a positive trait such as perfectionists or fear of failing.

Often, the first sign that a person has anxiety that is high functioning is a physical one like chronic headaches or digestive issues. It can be followed by a decline in enthusiasm for hobbies, a decline in performance at work or a constant feeling of anxiety. If these symptoms continue it is crucial to consult a medical professional.

Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is essential to recognize them as red flags. They are a signal that you require medical attention. For instance an executive might find that their constant worries are making it difficult for them to sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakened immune system. A student with high levels of anxiety may also notice that they're losing too much sleep, which could negatively impact their grades.

It is also important to set appropriate boundaries with people in your life who require lots of your time. This includes managers, family, and friends who want you to take on more than you're capable of handling. It could also be a matter of restricting stimulants, like caffeine and alcohol, which can trigger anxiety-related symptoms.

People who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment as people suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medications, depending on their severity. This includes practicing self-compassion, mindfulness and the ability to challenge or avoid negative self-talk.

Social support is lacking

Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety have a knack of hiding their internal struggles. They continue to fulfill their life's responsibilities and appear to be successful on the outside, but may be struggling to manage their feelings of anxiety. If left untreated, the anxiety may become chronic. They can interfere with everyday activities. It is crucial to practice stress management and seek out social support in order to combat these symptoms. These include journaling, staying away from caffeine, and attending an organization that helps you share your concerns with other people.

Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage. It can cause many physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach issues, and fatigue. Additionally, it can affect how you sleep. People who have high levels of anxiety have trouble relaxing and concentrating on the task at hand. They may also experience a constant sense of self-doubt and fear that they're falling short of others.

Certain patients with high-functioning anxiety are unwilling to seek out mental health care as they believe they are "not sick enough" or don't deserve the care. This is especially relevant for people suffering from ACEs (adverse childhood experiences) that can have long-lasting effects on mental health.

However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for sufferers of high functioning anxiety because it allows them to better understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options for treatment. CBT helps patients recognize and alter their thinking patterns. It can also help them to reframe their thoughts and discover solutions to the worries they have regarding the future.

Addiction to alcohol and drugs

People who suffer with anxiety that is high functioning frequently utilize alcohol and/or drugs as a means of self-medicating. They may also try to find relief through dietary changes or exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. However, these coping strategies are not an effective long-term solution. They can actually exacerbate their anxiety symptoms and can lead to addiction-related disorders. They can also trigger other health issues, such as stomach problems and heart issues.

While high-functioning anxiety may appear to be a positive trait but it can have serious repercussions. According to researchers, those who experience anxiety are more likely to have a higher chance of having an attack on their heart. They also are more likely to suffer from digestive issues and may have trouble sleeping. High-functioning anxiety can also affect their work performance. They may feel pressured to perform better than others which can cause anxiety and stress. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors like binge eating or drinking.

There isn't a universal solution to treat high functioning anxiety, but some strategies may aid. Some include meditating, focusing on mindfulness and eating a balanced diet. A journal can be helpful to recognize patterns and triggers. Also, you should ensure that your stress levels are in control and seek out professional help should you require it. Certain people who have high-functioning anxiety have a difficult time asking meds for social anxiety disorder help because they don't want to appear weak or incompetent. Fortunately, there are plenty of mental health resources that are available for online counseling. Some of these services may even be free. These services can be an great alternative to traditional in-person treatments for those who can't afford them.