High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people struggle with anxiety that is high-functioning. They might appear to have their lives together--or even be called overachievers. But underneath, they are struggling with severe 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 is essential to be aware of the need for help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication are available.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a state where individuals can be productive and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a tense energy they cannot manage. They may appear professional and have an active social life but are afraid of failing at their job or falling apart under the pressure from family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and continuously strive for perfection. This constant stress can be masked by their accomplishments and successes but it can be detrimental to their physical and mental health.
Overachievers may be hesitant to seek help for their condition due to the fear that it could slow them down or damage their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone particularly those who have praised their efforts. It's crucial to realize that you have high-functioning anxiousness and that it is able to be treated.
Therapy and medication can help patients manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and teach clients ways to decrease their negative ways of coping. People with high-functioning anxieties often react to criticism internally and then overreact. A therapy therapist can assist them in learning to manage their emotions, and to accept failure.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, and can lead to insomnia, digestive issues and a lack of motivation. It can also eat away at relationships and cause a feeling of loneliness. If you're a high achiever it is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People with high functioning anxiety disorders are often prone to overthinking. They might ponder conversations that have not concluded or worry about the details that could go wrong during an future event. This can cause chronic stress and anxiety. It can also affect sleep 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 an illness that is serious.
They set high standards and have high expectations of themselves. They feel that they'll never achieve perfection, despite the positive feedback. They work constantly and are pushing themselves to the limit and can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who are not in therapy can improve their coping abilities by managing their symptoms. They should, for example, try to get enough rest and eat healthy food. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Additionally they can seek help from other people who suffer from anxiety by attending therapy sessions in groups.
Psychotherapy is often the first step to treat anxiety disorders that are high-functioning, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior 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 alter negative thought patterns and react to stressful situations in more effective ways. People who suffer from anxiety disorders that are high functioning could also benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines may be used to treat acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
A hallmark of anxiety with high functioning is an inability to take care of yourself. This can take many forms from not getting enough sleep to cutting out meals. It can also be a matter of avoiding places or people that trigger anxiety. It can be a challenge for someone with high functioning anxiety to recognize that they require help, as they may view their anxiety as positive traits, like perfectionism or fear of failing.
The most common sign that a person has high functioning anxiety is a physical one like chronic headaches or digestive problems. This is followed by a decrease in interest in hobbies, poor work performance or a constant feeling of anxiety. If these symptoms persist it's crucial to talk to a doctor.
Even if the symptoms are mild and not serious, they should be viewed as warning signs and a signal to seek treatment. For instance, a manager might find that constant stress keeps him awake and leading to fatigue. Similarly, a student with high functioning anxiety might find that they're losing too much sleep and it is impacting their grades.
You should also establish appropriate boundaries for those who take up a lot of your time. This includes managers, family, and people who want you to do more than you are able to handle. Limiting stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, which can trigger anxiety, can also help.
People who have high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment as those with anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) as well as lifestyle changes, and medications according to the severity. This includes practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
generalized anxiety disorder of social support
Many people who suffer from high functioning anxiety are adept in securing their inner struggles. They may continue to perform their everyday tasks and appear to be successful however they may not be able cope with the anxiety. Untreated, these feelings may become chronic. They can affect the daily routine. It is essential to take control of stress and seek out social support to manage these symptoms. Writing, avoiding coffee, and joining support groups to discuss your concerns are all good ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage and can trigger an array of physical symptoms, including restlessness muscle tension, digestive problems, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, it may influence your sleep. People with high functioning anxiety often experience problems with relaxation and have trouble focusing on tasks at the moment. They may also experience an unending feeling of self-doubt or fear that they're falling short of others.
In some instances, high-functioning anxiety sufferers struggle to recognize their need for mental health treatment because they believe that they are not "sick enough" or that they don't deserve it. This is particularly the case for people suffering from ACEs that can have a lasting effects on mental health.
However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for high functioning anxiety sufferers as it helps them understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it. Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications like selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options for treatment. 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 the problems they face.
Alcohol and drugs addiction
Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs is common for people who have high functioning anxiety. Other options for relief include diet, exercise or decaf coffee. These coping strategies don't provide a lasting solution. They can actually increase their anxiety symptoms and cause addiction disorders. They can also lead to other health issues, including digestive distress and heart problems.
Although anxiety that is high-functioning may appear to be a positive quality, it can have serious consequences. According to research, those who experience anxiety are more likely to have an increased risk of suffering an attack on their heart. They are more likely to suffer from gastrointestinal problems and sleep issues. High-functioning anxiety may also affect their work performance. They may feel a desire to perform better than others and can create stress and tension. This can also cause unhealthy behaviors such as drinking and eating too much.
There isn't one solution for high functioning anxiety. However, certain strategies can be helpful. Some include meditating, practicing mindfulness, and eating a healthy diet. Using a journal can also be beneficial to help you spot patterns and triggers. It is also important to ensure that your stress levels are in control and seek professional help if necessary. It can be difficult for people with high-functioning anxiety to seek assistance since they do not want to be perceived as weak or as a failure. Fortunately, there are many mental health resources available for online counseling. Some of these services might even be completely free. These services are an great alternative to traditional in-person treatments for those who can't afford them.