High Functioning Anxiety Disorder

Millions of people suffer from high functioning anxiety. They may appear to be happy and content, or even be called overachievers. But underneath, they struggle with extreme stress and anxiety.

Chronic stress can make them unable to stop thinking or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It is important to recognize the need for assistance. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication are available.

Overachievers

People with high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, but they are often overwhelmed by a nervous energy that they aren't able to control. They may appear professional and have a lively social life but are afraid of failing in their job or slipping under the pressure of friends and family. They do not allow themselves to rest and constantly strive for perfection. This constant anxiety is often masked by successes and achievements, but it can be devastating for their mental and physical well-being.

Overachievers may also be hesitant to seek help for their conditions because they fear it could hinder or harm their career. They do not want to disappoint anyone particularly those who have praised them for their dedication to their work. It is important to recognize that you suffer from high-functioning anxiety and that it is able to be treated.

Talk therapy and medication can help patients manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to shift irrational beliefs that feed anxiety. They also teach clients how to reduce their negative ways of coping. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety tend to react negatively to criticism and take it in, so a therapist can teach them how to manage their emotions and learn to accept the failures.

Anxiety can trigger self-doubt and may cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems and a lack motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create a sense of isolation. If you're an athlete it's crucial to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.

Overthinking

Overthinking is common among people who suffer from high functioning anxiety disorder. They may ruminate on conversations long after the conversation has ended or worry about things that could get out of hand in a forthcoming situation. This can cause chronic stress and anxiety. It can also affect sleeping and concentration. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This can cause them to overdiagnose their health and be concerned that they may have a serious health issue.

They have high expectations for themselves and set high-stakes goals. They are convinced that they will never achieve perfection, regardless of the positive feedback. They're always pushing themselves to the limit, which could lead to exhaustion and burnout.

People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy may improve their coping abilities by managing their symptoms. For instance, they should take the time to get adequate rest and eat a healthy diet. Limit caffeine and other stimulants that may cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. Participating in group therapy sessions may also help them find assistance from other people who are suffering from anxiety.

Psychotherapy is the first step towards treating high functioning anxiety. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These types of therapy can help people understand how their thoughts and feelings are interconnected. They can also teach them how to change negative thought patterns and react to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety disorders that are high functioning could also benefit from medication. This could include antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, and benzodiazepines to provide short-term relief from acute symptoms.

Self-care is not always taken care of

A common symptom of anxiety with high functioning is a lack of self-care. It can manifest in a variety of forms, from not getting enough rest to not eating meals. This can also include staying clear of situations or people that cause anxiety symptoms. It can be difficult for a person who has high functioning anxiety to realize that they need help because they often consider their anxiety as positive traits like perfectionism or fear.

Often, the first indication that someone is suffering from anxiety with high functioning is physical like chronic headaches or digestive problems. This can be followed by a decrease in interest in hobbies, poor performance at work or a constant feeling of unease. If the symptoms persist it is essential to talk to a healthcare professional.

Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is important to treat them as red flags. They are a signal that you need to seek medical treatment. For example, a manager might find that constant stress hinders him from sleeping and causing fatigue. For instance, a student who has high functioning anxiety might find that they are losing too much sleep and this is affecting their academic performance.

It is also crucial to set appropriate boundaries with people in your life who require lots of time from you. This can include family members, friends, and managers who would like you to do more than you are able to handle. It could also be a matter of restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can cause anxiety symptoms.

Fortunately, people with high functioning anxiety can be helped in the same manner that others suffering from anxiety disorders are. This includes psychotherapy (talk therapy) as well as lifestyle changes and, depending on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This means practicing self-compassion, mindfulness and the ability to challenge or avoid negative self-talk.

https://www.iampsychiatry.com/anxiety-disorders with high functioning anxiety are skilled in securing their inner struggles. They are able to continue to perform their life's responsibilities and appear successful on the outside, but may be unable to cope with their feelings of anxiety. If left untreated, these feelings can eventually become chronic and hinder daily functions. It is important to take control of stress and seek social support to help combat these symptoms. The practice of journaling, avoiding coffee and joining support groups to talk about your worries are all excellent methods to manage these symptoms.

Anxiety is difficult to manage. It can cause various physical symptoms, including headaches, restlessness, digestive problems, and fatigue. In addition, it can affect how you sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety have difficulty getting their attention off the task at being done. They might also feel a constant feeling of self-doubt, or worry that they let others down.

Some high-functioning anxiety patients are not inclined to seek mental health care as they believe they are "not sick enough" or do not merit the treatment. This is especially true for those with ACEs that can have a lasting effects on mental health.

However, seeking treatment may be beneficial for those suffering from high functioning anxiety as it helps them comprehend their anxiety and figure out how to manage it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are all options to treat. CBT helps patients change their thinking patterns and recognize their distortions. It also helps the patient to reframe their thinking and find solutions to the concerns they have regarding the future.

Turning to drugs and alcohol

Self-medicating through alcohol and other drugs is common among those who suffer from high functioning anxieties. They may also find relief through dietary changes as well as exercise, decaf coffee or other methods. But these strategies for coping are not the best long-term solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms and can lead to substance abuse disorders. They can also trigger other health issues, including stomach problems and heart issues.

High-functioning anxiety is often seen as an excellent trait. However, it has serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that those who suffer from anxiety are at a higher risk of having a cardiac event. They also are more likely to develop gastrointestinal issues and may have trouble sleeping. Stress can also impact their performance at work. They may feel the need to perform better than other people and this can lead to stress and tension. 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, mindfulness and eating a healthy diet are a few of the strategies that may help. A journal can be helpful to identify patterns and triggers. In the end, it is important to make sure your stress levels are under control and seek professional therapy if you need. Certain people who have high-functioning anxiety are hesitant to ask for assistance because they do not want to appear weak or incompetent. There are a variety of mental resources, including online counseling, available. Some of these services are even free. They could be a great alternative to in-person therapy for those who aren't able to afford traditional treatment.