High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people struggle with https://www.openlearning.com/u/richardsashworth-sdekot/blog/OneOfTheBiggestMistakesThatPeopleMakeWithAnxietyDisorder s that are high-functioning. They may appear to have their lives together--or even be labelled as overachievers, but underneath, they're struggling with extreme stress and anxiety.
Chronic stress can make them in a state of mind that is difficult to control or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It's crucial to recognize that they require help, which is accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy as well as medication.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, but they're often consumed by a tense energy they can't control. They present a professional exterior and lead a busy social life, but within they fear that they'll fail in their job or fall apart under the pressure of family and friends. They are never able to take a break, and they are always striving for perfection. This constant stress can be masked by their successes and achievements but it can be a disaster for their mental and physical well-being.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek treatment for their conditions because they are afraid that it will slow them or hinder their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone particularly those who have praised them for their dedication to their work. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that you suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning and understand that it is treatable.
The use of medication and talk therapy can help people manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to shift the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and help clients learn to decrease their negative coping mechanisms. People with high-functioning anxieties often take on criticism and react in a way that is overly emotional. A therapist can help them learn to manage their emotions and to accept their failures.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, and can lead to sleep disturbances, digestive problems, and a lack of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and cause a feeling of loneliness. If you are a high achiever it is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common in people with high functioning anxiety disorder. They might ponder conversations that have not concluded or worry about the things that could go wrong in an coming event. This can lead to constant anxiety and stress. It can also impact sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also susceptible to hypochondria. This can cause them to overdiagnose health concerns and be concerned that they may be suffering from a serious illness.
They set high standards and have high expectations of themselves. Despite the positive feedback they receive they feel like they are always failing and will never reach the level of perfection. They are always working and pushing themselves beyond their limits which can lead to burning out and exhaustion.
People with high functioning anxiety who are not in therapy can enhance their coping capabilities by managing their symptoms. For example they should get enough sleep and adhere to an appropriate diet. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants that may cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. In addition they can seek out support from other people who suffer from anxiety by attending group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is typically the first step to treat anxiety that is high functioning, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of treatments can help people to understand the connection between their feelings and thoughts. They can also help them learn how to change negative thought patterns and respond to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning may benefit from medication. This can include antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs and benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
One of the most common signs of anxiety that is high functioning is the lack of self-care. It can manifest in a variety of forms, from not getting enough rest to skipping meals. It could also be a matter of avoiding places or people that trigger anxiety. It can also be difficult for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to recognize that they need help, as they tend to see their anxiety as positive traits, like perfectionism or fear of failing.
Often, the first indication that someone is suffering from anxiety that is high functioning is a physical one like chronic headaches or digestive problems. This can be associated with an absence of enthusiasm for activities or work or the feeling of being uneasy on a regular basis. If these symptoms continue it's crucial to talk to a medical professional.
Even if the symptoms appear mild it is important to treat them as warning signs and a signal to seek treatment. For instance, a manager might find that constant stress is preventing him from sleeping and leading to fatigue. For instance, a student who has high functioning anxiety may discover that they're losing too much sleep, and it's negatively impacting their performance.
It is also crucial to set healthy boundaries with people in your life who demand lots of time from you. This could include managers, family, and people who want you to take on more than you are able to handle. 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 people suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medications according to the severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety are adept at concealing their internal struggles. They continue to fulfill their obligations and appear to be successful on the outside, but they may be unable to cope with the anxiety they feel. If not addressed, these feelings can eventually become chronic and disrupt the daily activities. To help combat these symptoms, it is crucial to seek out social support and employ stress management techniques. These include journaling, staying away from caffeine, and attending an organization that helps you share your worries with others.
Anxiety is difficult to manage. It can cause various physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach problems and fatigue. In addition, it may influence your sleep. People who have high levels of anxiety have difficulty getting their attention off the task at being done. They may also feel a constant sense of self-doubt or anxiety that they have let others down.
In certain instances those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to acknowledge their need for mental health treatment because they feel that they aren't "sick enough" or do not deserve it. This is particularly true for those with ACEs which can have a a lasting effect on mental health.
Treatment can be beneficial to high functioning anxiety sufferers, as it helps them better understand their anxiety and understand how to manage it. Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options to treat. CBT helps patients identify and change their thinking patterns. It can help them learn to change their thinking and come up with solutions to any future issues they face.
Alcohol and drugs addiction
Self-medicating with alcohol and drugs is common for people who suffer from anxiety disorders that cause high functioning. They may also try to seek relief through diet changes or exercise, decaf coffee or other methods. These coping mechanisms are not a long-lasting solution. They can actually worsen their anxiety symptoms, and result in substance abuse disorders. They can also lead to other health issues, including heart problems and gastrointestinal distress.
High-functioning anxiety is often seen as a positive trait. However, it can have grave consequences. According to research, those who are anxious are more likely to be at a higher risk of suffering heart attacks. They are also more likely to suffer from digestive issues and may have trouble sleeping. High-functioning anxiety can also affect their work performance. They may feel pressured to perform better than others and this can lead to anxiety and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits like binge eating or drinking.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach for treating anxiety with high functioning However, some strategies can aid. Some include meditating, practicing mindfulness and eating a balanced diet. A journal can be helpful to identify patterns and triggers. You should also make sure that your stress levels are under control and seek professional assistance should you require it. It can be difficult for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to seek assistance because they aren't keen to be perceived as weak or as a failure. Fortunately, there are plenty of mental health resources available that offer 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 are unable to afford them.