High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They might appear to be happy and content, or even be labeled as overachievers--but underneath, they are struggling with severe stress and anxiety.
Chronic stress can cause them to be incapable of putting their thoughts to rest, sleep poorly, and affect their health. It's crucial to recognize that they need help, and it's readily available through cognitive behavioral therapy as well as medication.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able to work and meet deadlines, however they're often consumed by a tense energy they can't manage. They present a professional exterior and maintain an active social life, but inside they fear they'll fail at their jobs or fall apart under the pressure of friends and family. They don't allow themselves to rest and are constantly striving to achieve their goals. This constant anxiety is often disguised by achievements and successes but it can be detrimental to their physical and mental well-being.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek treatment for their conditions, as they fear that it could slow them down or damage their career. They don't want to let anyone down, especially those who have praised them for their hard work. It's crucial to realize that you are suffering from anxiety with high-functioning and that it can be treated.
Therapy and medication can help patients manage their symptoms. Therapists use techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to change the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and teach clients how to manage their negative coping mechanism. People who have high-functioning anxiety tend to react to criticism internally and then overreact. A counselor can help them learn to manage their emotions, and to accept failure.
Anxiety can cause self-doubt and may cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems and a lack of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and cause a sense of being isolated. If you are an athlete it is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorders.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common among those with high functioning anxiety disorder. They may mull over conversations that have not concluded or worry about the things that could go wrong during an upcoming event. This can cause to anxiety and stress. It can also affect sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This could cause to them to overdiagnose their health and be concerned that they may have a serious health issue.
These individuals have high expectations of themselves and set very demanding goals. They feel that they'll never reach perfection, despite the positive feedback. They're always working and testing their limits, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, individuals who have anxiety that is high functioning can improve their coping skills by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For instance, they should, try to get enough rest and eat healthy food. They should also limit caffeine and other stimulants that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Attending group therapy sessions can aid in finding help from others who suffer from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is the first step in treating anxiety that is high functioning. This can be done through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of therapies can help people to understand the connection between their feelings and thoughts. They can also teach them how to alter negative thought patterns and respond to stressful situations in more effective ways. In addition, those who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from taking medication. This can include antidepressants, such as 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
A common symptom of anxiety with high functioning is the lack of self-care. This can come in many ways, from not getting enough rest to skipping meals. It could also mean avoiding people or places that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be a challenge for people with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they require help, as they often view their anxiety as a positive trait, like perfectionism or fear of failure.
The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom, such as chronic migraines or digestive issues. This can be followed by a decline in enthusiasm for hobbies, a decrease in performance at work, or a constant sense of anxiety. If the symptoms persist it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional.
Even if symptoms appear moderate, it is crucial to recognize them as red flags. They should be a warning sign that you should seek medical care. For example, an executive may find that their constant stress is hindering their sleep and causing fatigue and a weak immune system. A student with high levels of anxiety may also notice that they're losing too much sleep, which can negatively impact their grades.
It is also essential to set healthy boundaries with those in your life who expect lots of your time. This can include managers, family, and friends who want you to do more than you're capable of handling. It could also be a matter of restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can trigger anxiety symptoms.
People with high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment options as people suffering from anxiety disorder s. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy), changes in lifestyle, and medication dependent on the severity. This means practicing self-compassion, mindfulness and being able to resist or challenge negative self-talk.
Lack of social support
Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at hiding their inner struggles. They continue to fulfill their life's responsibilities and appear to be successful on the outside, but may be struggling to manage their anxiety-related feelings. If left untreated the anxiety can become chronic and hinder everyday activities. It is crucial to manage stress and seek out social support in order to combat these symptoms. Writing, avoiding coffee, and joining support groups to discuss your worries are all excellent strategies to fight these symptoms.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage. It can cause various physical symptoms, such as restlessness, headaches, digestive problems, and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People who have high levels of anxiety may have difficulty getting their attention off the task at being done. They may also experience a constant feeling of self-doubt or fear that they are doing something wrong for others.
In certain instances, high-functioning anxiety sufferers struggle to recognize their need for treatment because they believe they are not "sick enough" or that they are not worthy of 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 those suffering from high functioning anxiety as it helps them comprehend their anxiety and figure out how to cope with it. Treatment options include talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication such as selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT assists patients in recognizing and change their thinking patterns. It can also teach them to reframe their thoughts and discover solutions to the worries they have about the future.
Addiction to alcohol and drugs
Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs is common for people who have high functioning anxiety. They may also try to get relief by dietary changes, exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. These strategies for coping are not a long-lasting solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and result in substance abuse disorders. They can also lead to other health issues, like digestive distress and heart problems.
While high-functioning anxiety may appear to be a positive characteristic, it can have serious consequences. According to research, those who are anxious are more likely to have a higher chance of having heart attacks. They are more likely to have stomach problems and sleep issues. High-functioning anxiety can also affect their work performance. They may feel pressured to perform better than others which can cause tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as drinking excessively or binge eating.
There isn't a single solution to high functioning anxiety. However, certain strategies can help. Meditation mindfulness, mindfulness and eating a healthy diet are a few of the strategies that may help. A journal can be beneficial in helping you recognize patterns and triggers. Also, you should ensure that your stress levels are under control and seek professional assistance should you require it. 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 could even be free. They could be a great alternative to in-person therapy for those who aren't able to pay for traditional treatments.