The Hidden Struggles of High-Functioning Anxiety and How to Cope
Ever met someone who seems to have all their ducks in a row? They're always on time, they get things done, and they're the go-to for almost everything.
They seem like superheroes. But in reality, they're fighting a hidden battle: high-functioning anxiety.
It's like Superman struggling with Kryptonite but still managing to save the day.
What Is High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety isn't your everyday stress and worry.
It's when someone appears to handle their daily tasks and responsibilities just fine but secretly struggles with constant anxiety and worry.
It's more like having a pesky mosquito buzzing in your ear. Day in and day out. But doing it all without anybody noticing your struggles.
Although it's not an official diagnosis, it's considered part of generalized anxiety disorder.
Recognizing Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety
Spotting high-functioning anxiety can be as difficult as finding Waldo in a crowd. But here are some signs to look out for:
Fear of Criticism: Worrying a lot about even small criticisms. Leading to self-doubt.
Perfectionism: Trying to be perfect all the time, even losing sleep over small mistakes.
Need for Control: Struggling to delegate. Needing to oversee everything.
Acute Stress: Experiencing intense stress daily, even with routine tasks.
Overthinking: Constantly analyzing conversations and interactions.
Imposter Syndrome: Feeling like a fraud despite accomplishments.
Physical Symptoms: Excessive sweating, headaches, dizziness, muscle tension, and poor sleep quality.
All these signs together point towards high-functioning anxiety.
How Is It Different From Other Anxiety Disorders?
High-functioning anxiety is a unique player in the anxiety game. There are several ways it stands apart:
Performance and Productivity: They look successful, manage deadlines, and maintain social relationships. People with other forms of anxiety disorders find it difficult to function.
Internal vs. External Symptoms: Symptoms are often internalized and not visible to others. Other anxiety disorders show more obvious anxiety symptoms.
Compensation Mechanisms: People with high-functioning anxiety are highly organized and proactive, masking their struggles.
Recognition and Diagnosis: High-functioning anxiety is not a DSM-5 mental health diagnosis. This makes it harder to identify and treat.
Social Perception: Since they appear successful, they are less likely to ask for help.
Impact on Personal and Professional Life
High-functioning anxiety can seriously impact both personal and professional life:
Professional Impact:
Unrealistic standards can lead to mental and emotional strain.
Difficulty saying no, so end with more workload and burnout.
Physical symptoms affect concentration and focus at work.
Overanalyzing decisions and intense fear of failure can hinder effective decision-making.
Personal Impact:
Constant stress and excessive worry affect interpersonal relationships.
Perfectionism causes relationship stress and hinders connection.
Neglecting self-care impacts well-being and quality of life.
Physical symptoms like fatigue and insomnia affect overall health.
Common Risk Factors
Certain risk factors make some people more susceptible to high-functioning anxiety.
High Achievers: Individuals who constantly push themselves to excel.
Perfectionists: Those who set unrealistic standards.
High-Stress Environments: People in demanding jobs or stressful situations.
Genetic Predisposition: Family history of anxiety disorders.
Childhood Trauma: Experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse during childhood.
Physical Conditions: Underlying health issues, such as thyroid disorders.
Substance Abuse: Using substances to cope can worsen anxiety symptoms.
Recognizing these risk factors is important for early identification and management.
Strategies for Managing High-Functioning Anxiety
Living with high-functioning anxiety isn't a walk in the park, but you can learn to manage it.
Here are practical strategies to help you take back control:
Set Clear Boundaries: Know your limits and protect your personal time.
Focus on Self-Care: Engage in activities that help you unwind.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can reduce symptoms.
Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise and consistent sleep schedules help reduce symptoms.
Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings. Lighten your mental load.
Structured Problem Solving: Break down worries into manageable steps.
Talk It Out: Share your experiences with someone you trust or seek professional help.
Practice Assertiveness: Empower yourself by expressing your needs and feelings.
Start with a few strategies each day.
Remember, every step you take towards managing your anxiety is a win.
How Can Wave Help?
Wave goes beyond the standard approach to mental health treatment.
Our therapists and board-certified health and wellness coaches are all part of our personalized treatment plan.
We offer:
Accessible Therapy: Connect with us through convenient online sessions.
Tailored Care Plans: Optimized to your evolving needs with expert oversight.
Targeted Solutions: Customized mental health care solutions for the younger workforce.
Whole-person Support: We focus on improving your mental health, physical health, and wellness.
Over 40% of our users experience significant improvements within four sessions. Download the Wave app and start your first free coaching session today.