Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your High Functioning Anxiety Disorder?
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people struggle with anxiety that is high-functioning. They may appear to have their lives together--or even be labeled as overachievers--but underneath, they struggle with severe stress and anxiety.
Chronic stress can cause them to be in a state of mind that is difficult to control and sleep less well, which can have a negative impact on their health. It is important to recognize that they need assistance, which is accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a condition where individuals can be productive and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a nervous energy that they are unable to manage. They may appear professional and have a lively social life, but they are scared of falling short in their work or slipping under the pressure of family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and constantly strive to be the best they can be. This constant stress can be masked by their successes and achievements but can be devastating for their physical and mental well-being.
Overachievers can also be reluctant to take care of their health issues due to the fear that it could slow them down or hinder their career. They aren't looking to let anyone down particularly those who have praised their hard work. It is important to recognize that you are suffering from anxiety with high-functioning and that it is able to be treated.
Therapy and medication can aid in managing symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to change the belief system that feeds anxiety, and also teach clients to lessen their negative coping mechanism. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety tend to react to criticism in a way that they take it in, so the therapist can help them learn how to manage their feelings and learn to accept failing.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, sleep disturbances, digestive issues and a loss of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and cause an isolation. If you're an athlete it is essential to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorder are often prone to overthinking. They may ruminate on conversations that continue long after the conversation has ended, or worry about things that could go wrong in an upcoming situation. This can cause to anxiety and stress that lasts for a long time. It can also impact sleeping and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also susceptible to hypochondria. This can cause them to overdiagnose health issues and worry that they are suffering from a serious illness.
They set high standards and have high expectations of themselves. They are convinced that they will never achieve perfection, despite the positive feedback. They're always working and pushing themselves to the limit, which can cause exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, those who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning can improve their coping skills by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough sleep and adhere to an appropriate diet. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants that may increase anxiety symptoms. Additionally they can seek out support from other people who suffer from anxiety by taking part in group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is usually the first step to treat anxiety disorders that are high-functioning, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of treatments can aid people in understanding the relationship between their feelings and thoughts. They can also teach them how to change negative thought patterns and react to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from taking medication. This includes antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, and benzodiazepines to provide short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
A lack of self-care is a symptom of high functioning anxiety. This can manifest in a variety of ways from not getting enough sleep to skipping meals. It could also be about avoiding people or places that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be a challenge for someone with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they require assistance, as they often view their anxiety as positive traits, like perfectionism or fear of failing.
The first sign of anxiety that is high functioning may be a physical manifestation like chronic migraines or digestive issues. This is followed by a decrease in interest in hobbies, poor work performance or a constant feeling of anxiety. If the symptoms persist it is crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.
Even if these symptoms are mild, they should be treated as red flags and a signal to seek treatment. 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 functioning anxiety may find that they are unable to get much sleep, and it's affecting their academic performance.
You should also set appropriate boundaries for those who are demanding lots of your time. This could include family members, friends, or managers who want you do more than you can manage. It could also be a matter of limiting stimulants, such as caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
Fortunately, people suffering from high functioning anxiety can be helped in the same way as other individuals with anxiety disorders are. This includes psychotherapy (talk therapy) as well as lifestyle changes and, depending on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This means practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and the ability to challenge or avoid negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety are adept at hiding their internal struggles. They may continue to perform their day-to-day tasks and appear successful, but they may not be able to deal with the anxiety. If left untreated, these feelings can eventually become chronic and disrupt daily functions. It is crucial to take control of stress and seek social support to manage these symptoms. This includes journaling, avoiding caffeine, and attending an online support group to discuss your worries with others.
Anxiety can be a challenge to manage and can trigger many physical symptoms like restlessness, muscular tension, digestive issues headaches, fatigue, and restlessness. It can also affect your sleep. People with high functioning anxiety typically experience difficulty relaxing and have a hard time paying attention to the tasks at hand. They may also experience an unending sense of self-doubt and fear that they are falling short of others.
In some instances people with high-functioning anxiety struggle to recognize their need for mental health treatment because they believe that they are not "sick enough" or don't deserve the treatment. This is particularly true for those with ACEs, which can have lasting effects on mental health.
Treatment can be beneficial to people with high functioning anxiety, as it helps them better understand their anxiety and learn how they can deal with it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are all options to treat. CBT helps patients alter their thinking patterns and recognize their distortions. It also helps patients to change their thinking and find solutions to the anxiety they feel regarding the future.
Relapse to alcohol and drugs
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often utilize alcohol and/or drugs as a means of self-medicating. Other methods of relief include diet, exercise or decaf coffee. However, these coping mechanisms are not the best long-term solution. They can actually worsen anxiety symptoms and lead to addiction-related disorders. They can also cause other health issues, such as heart problems and gastrointestinal distress.
While high-functioning anxiety may appear to be a positive characteristic, it can have serious repercussions. According to research, those who are anxious are more likely to be at a higher chance of suffering a heart attack. They are more likely to suffer from digestive problems and sleep issues. The high-functioning anxiety can also affect their work performance. They may feel the need to perform better than others which can cause anxiety and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as drinking excessively or binge eating.
There isn't a single solution for anxiety that is high functioning. However, certain strategies can help. Some include meditating, practicing mindfulness and a healthy diet. Using a journal can also be beneficial 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. Certain people who have high-functioning anxiety are hesitant to ask for assistance because they do not want to appear weak or unprofessional. There are a variety of mental resources, including online counseling available. Some of these services may even be free. These services are an great alternative to traditional in-person treatments for those who can't afford them.