High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of individuals struggle with high functioning anxiety. They may appear to be in control of their lives, or even be referred to as "overachievers" however they are actually struggling with severe anxiety and stress.
Chronic stress can cause them to be in a state of mind that is difficult to control and sleep less well, which can affect their health. It's important to recognize that they require help, which is readily available through cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able work and meet deadlines, however they're often engulfed by a tense energy they can't manage. They may appear professional and have a busy social life but are afraid of failing in their job or falling apart under the pressure from family and friends. They are never able to take a break, and they are always striving for perfection. This constant anxiety may be masked by their accomplishments and successes but it can be detrimental to their mental and physical well-being.
Overachievers may be reluctant to seek help for their condition because they fear it will hinder or harm their career. https://www.iampsychiatry.com/anxiety-disorders do not want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their efforts. It's important to realize that you are suffering from anxiety with high-functioning and that it is able to be treated.
Talk therapy and medication can help people manage symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to shift irrational beliefs that feed anxiety and help clients learn to decrease their negative ways of coping. People who have high-functioning anxiety tend to internalize criticism and overreact. A counselor can help them learn to manage their emotions and accept the failure.
Anxiety can lead to self-doubt, and can lead to sleep disturbances, digestive issues, and a lack of motivation. It can also cause a breakdown in relationships and create an feeling of isolation. If you're a high achiever it is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorders are more likely to think too much. They may mull over conversations long after they have ended or worry about issues that could go wrong in an upcoming event. This can cause to anxiety and stress that lasts for a long time. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This could cause them to overdiagnose their health, and then worry they may have a serious health issue.
They set themselves high-level goals and have high expectations of themselves. They are convinced that they'll never reach perfection, regardless of the positive feedback. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limit and can lead to burnout and exhaustion.
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy can enhance their coping skills by addressing their symptoms. They should, for example take the time to get adequate rest and eat a healthy diet. Reduce the intake of caffeine and other stimulants which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions may also help them find help from others who suffer from anxiety.
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 therapy can help people understand how their thoughts and emotions are linked. They can show them how they can change negative thought patterns and how to react to stressful situations more efficiently. Additionally, people who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines may be used to relieve acute symptoms.
Lack of self-care
A hallmark of high functioning anxiety is an inability to take care of yourself. This can manifest in a variety of ways including not getting enough sleep to not eating meals. It can also mean avoiding people or places that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be a challenge for someone with high functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, as they tend to see their anxiety as positive characteristics, like perfectionism or fear of failing.
The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning may be a physical manifestation like chronic migraines or digestive issues. This is followed by a loss of enthusiasm for hobbies, a decline in work performance or a constant feeling of anxiety. If these symptoms continue it's crucial to talk to a health professional.
Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is important to recognize them as red flags. They should be a warning sign that you need to seek medical care. For instance an executive might find that their constant stress is hindering their sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakened immune system. A student who has high functioning levels of anxiety could discover that they are losing too much sleep, which can adversely affect their academic performance.
It is also important to establish healthy boundaries with people in your life who expect lots of your time. This includes managers, family, and friends who would like you to do more than you're capable of handling. It could also be a matter of restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
People who have high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment that is available to those with anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and changes in lifestyle, and medication according to the severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or engaging in self-talk that is negative.
Social support is lacking
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety have a knack of hiding their internal struggles. They are able to continue to perform their life's responsibilities and appear to be successful on the outside, but they may be struggling to manage their feelings of anxiety. If they are not treated, these feelings can eventually become chronic and hinder the daily activities. To combat these symptoms, it's crucial to seek out social support and implement stress management strategies. Journaling, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to share your concerns are all good ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage and can trigger an array of physical symptoms like restlessness, muscle tension, digestive problems, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, it may affect your sleep. People with high levels of anxiety have trouble in focusing and relaxing for the task at the moment. They might also feel a constant sense of self-doubt or anxiety that they've let others down.
Certain patients with high-functioning anxiety are not inclined to seek mental health care as they believe they are "not sick enough" or don't deserve the care. This is particularly true for people with ACEs (adverse childhood experiences), which can have lasting consequences for mental health.
However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for those suffering from high functioning anxiety because it allows them to better understand their anxiety and how to manage it. Treatment choices include therapy for talk, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and medications like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients identify and change their thinking patterns. It also helps the patient to reframe their thinking and find solutions to the concerns they have regarding the future.
Alcohol and drugs addiction
Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs is common among people who suffer from anxiety disorders that cause high functioning. Other options for relief include dietary changes, exercise or decaf coffee. These coping mechanisms are not a long-lasting solution. They can actually worsen anxiety symptoms and can lead to addiction-related disorders. They can also trigger other health issues, like digestive distress and heart problems.
The presence of anxiety in high-functioning individuals is often seen as an advantage. However, it can have grave consequences. Researchers have discovered that people who suffer from anxiety are at a higher chance of suffering from a cardiac event. They are more likely to experience digestive issues and sleep problems. High-functioning anxiety may affect their performance at work. They may feel a need to perform better than other people and can create tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as binge-eating or drinking.
There isn't one solution for high functioning anxiety. However, some strategies can help. Meditation, mindfulness, and an appropriate diet are just a few of the strategies that could aid. A journal can be beneficial in helping you spot patterns and triggers. Finally, you should try to make sure your stress levels are in check and seek professional therapy if needed. It can be difficult for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to ask for help because they don't want to be seen as weak or a failure. There are many mental resources, such as online counseling accessible. Some of these services are free. These services are an great alternative to traditional in-person therapies for those who are unable to afford them.