Three Reasons Why The Reasons For Your High Functioning Anxiety Disorder Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people struggle with anxiety that is high-functioning. They may appear to be in control of their lives, or even be described as "overachievers" however they are actually struggling with extreme stress and anxiety.
They are constantly thinking about their thoughts and they might not sleep well and their health suffers because of stress. It is important to recognize that they need help, and it's accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy as well as medication.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a condition where individuals can accomplish their tasks and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a fearful energy they cannot control. They may appear professional and have a lively social life, but are terrified of failing in their job or falling apart under the pressure from friends and family. They don't allow themselves to rest and continuously strive for perfection. The constant anxiety can be disguised by achievements and successes however it can be devastating for their physical and mental health.
Overachievers may also be hesitant to seek help for their health issues due to the fear that it could slow them down or damage their career. They don't wish to disappoint anyone, particularly those who have praised their efforts. It's important to realize that you suffer from high-functioning anxiety and that it can be treated.
The use of medication and talk therapy can help people manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter negative beliefs that fuel anxiety and teach clients ways to decrease their negative coping mechanisms. People with high-functioning anxiety often internalize criticism and overreact. A therapist can help them learn to manage their feelings, and to accept failure.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt and can cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems and a lack motivation. It can also affect relationships and cause an feeling of isolation. If you're an athlete, it's 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 is over, or fret about details that could get out of hand in a forthcoming situation. This can lead chronic stress and anxiety. It can also affect sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also prone to hypochondria, which can cause them to overdiagnose health concerns and fear that they might be suffering from a serious illness.
These individuals have high expectations for themselves and set very demanding goals. Despite the positive feedback they receive they feel that they are always failing and never getting to the point of the level of perfection. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limits, which can result in exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, individuals who suffer from high functioning anxiety can improve their coping skills by taking steps to manage their symptoms. They should, for example try to get enough rest and eat healthy food. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can increase anxiety symptoms. Additionally they can seek help from others who have anxiety by attending group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step towards treating high functioning anxiety. This can be done through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapy can help people understand the ways in which their thoughts and feelings are interconnected. They can show them how they can modify negative thoughts and how to respond to stressful situations more efficiently. People with 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.
Lack of self-care
One of the most common signs of anxiety with high functioning is a lack of self-care. It can manifest in a variety of forms, ranging from not getting enough rest to skipping meals. This can also include avoiding people or situations that cause anxiety symptoms. It can be difficult for people with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they need help, as they may view their anxiety as positive characteristics such as perfectionists or fear of failure.
The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning may be a physical manifestation that is chronic migraines or digestive issues. This may be accompanied by a lack of interest in hobbies or work or a constant feeling of unease. If the symptoms persist it is crucial to consult a medical professional.
Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is important to treat them as warning signs. They should be a sign that you need to seek medical care. For example, an executive may find that their constant worry is making it difficult for them to sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakened immune system. Similarly, a student with high functioning anxiety may find that they're losing too much sleep and this is affecting their academic performance.
You should also set appropriate boundaries for those who are demanding a lot of your time. This can include family members, friends, and managers who want you do more than you can manage. It could also mean restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can cause anxiety symptoms.
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment options as those with anxiety disorder s. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and changes in lifestyle, and medication dependent on the severity. This means practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and learning to avoid or challenge negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people with high functioning anxiety are adept at concealing their internal struggles. They continue to fulfill their obligations and appear successful on outside, but are not able to handle the anxiety they feel. If not treated, these issues can become debilitating. They can interfere with the daily routine. To help combat these symptoms, it's important to seek social support and implement stress management strategies. Writing, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to talk about your concerns are all good ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage. It can cause a variety of physical symptoms, such as headaches, restlessness, digestive problems, and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People with high functioning anxiety usually have difficulty relaxing and have a hard time focusing on tasks at the moment. They may also feel a constant sense of self-doubt and fear that they are doing something wrong for others.
In certain instances those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to acknowledge their need for treatment because they believe they are not "sick enough" or that they don't deserve the treatment. This is especially true for people with ACEs (adverse childhood experiences), which can have lasting consequences for mental health.
However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for high functioning anxiety sufferers because it helps them better understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it. Treatment options include talk therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as medication like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients change their thinking patterns and identify their distortions. It can teach them how to change their thinking and come up with solutions to any future issues they face.
Addiction to alcohol and drugs
Self-medicating with alcohol and drugs is common for people who have high functioning anxiety. Other methods of relief include dietary changes, exercise or decaf coffee. These strategies for coping don't provide a lasting solution. They can actually increase their anxiety symptoms and cause addiction disorders. They can also cause other health issues, including stomach problems and heart issues.
Anxiety that is high-functioning is often seen as an excellent trait. However, it can also have serious consequences. According to research, 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. Stress can also impact their performance at work. They may feel pressured to perform better than others, which can lead to tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits like drinking and eating too much.
There isn't a single solution for anxiety that is high functioning. However, certain strategies can help. Meditation mindfulness, mindfulness and eating a healthy diet are a few of the strategies that could aid. Journals can be helpful to identify patterns and triggers. It is also important to ensure that your stress levels are in control and seek out professional help should you require it. It can be hard for someone with anxiety that is high-functioning to seek assistance because they aren't keen to be perceived as weak or a failure. Fortunately, there are many mental health resources that are available, including online counseling. Some of these services are even free. They are a viable alternative to in-person therapy for those who aren't able to afford traditional treatment.