High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from high functioning anxiety. They may appear to be in control of their lives, or be described as "overachievers" however they're actually suffering from extreme stress and anxiety.
They can't stop thinking They may not be able to sleep well and their health suffers due to stress. It is important to recognize the need for assistance. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are available.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a condition where people are able to work and meet deadlines but are engulfed by a tense energy that they are unable to manage. They may appear professional and have a lively social life, but are terrified of falling short in their work or slipping under the pressure from friends and family. They don't have time to relax, and constantly strive for perfection. This constant anxiety may be masked by their accomplishments and successes but can be devastating for their mental and physical well-being.
Overachievers can also be unwilling to seek treatment for their condition, as they fear that it could slow them down or hurt their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their work. It's crucial to realize that you suffer from high-functioning anxiety and that it can be treated.
The use of medication and talk therapy can help people manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to shift irrational belief that feed anxiety, and teach clients how to reduce their negative coping mechanism. People with high-functioning anxiety often overreact to criticism and take it in, so a therapist can teach them how to manage their feelings and learn to accept the failures.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt, digestion issues, sleep disturbances, and a loss of motivation. It can also affect relationships and cause a sense of being isolated. If you're a high achiever it is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorder are often prone to overthinking. They might ponder conversations even after the conversation is over, or worry about things that could go awry in a forthcoming situation. This can lead to chronic anxiety and stress. It can also impact sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also susceptible to hypochondria, which can cause them to overdiagnose health concerns and fear that they might be suffering from an illness that is serious.
These individuals set high 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 which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, people who have high functioning anxiety can enhance their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough sleep and adhere to an appropriate diet. They should also stay away from caffeine and other stimulants that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions may aid in finding help from others who suffer from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is typically the first step to treat high functioning anxiety, particularly 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 teach them how they can change negative thought patterns and how to respond to stressful situations more efficiently. People who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning may benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines can be used to relieve acute symptoms.
Lack of self-care
A lack of self-care is a symptom of high functioning anxiety. This can come in many forms, from not getting enough sleep to not eating meals. It could also be about avoiding people or places that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can also be difficult for people with high functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, since they often view their anxiety as positive traits such as perfectionists or fear of failing.
The first sign of high functioning anxiety may be a physical manifestation like chronic migraines or digestive issues. This may be coupled with a lack of interest in hobbies or work or the feeling of being uneasy on a regular basis. If these symptoms persist it is crucial to consult a medical professional.
Even if the symptoms are mild, it is essential to recognize them as red flags. They are a signal that you require medical attention. For instance, an executive may find that their constant stress is hindering their sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weak immune system. For instance, a student who has high functioning anxiety might find that they are losing too much sleep and it is affecting their academic performance.
It is also important to establish healthy boundaries for people who demand a lot of your time. This could include family members, friends, or managers who would like you to do more than you are able to manage. https://writeablog.net/bandkiss72/5-clarifications-on-generalised-anxiety-disorder could also mean restricting stimulants, like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can trigger anxiety-related symptoms.
People who have high functioning anxiety can benefit from the same treatment that is available to those with anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy), lifestyle changes, and medication dependent on the severity. This means practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Lack of social support
Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at hiding their internal struggles. They may continue to perform their daily tasks and appear to be doing well however they may not be able to deal with the anxiety. If not addressed, these feelings can eventually become chronic and disrupt the daily activities. It is crucial to manage stress and seek out social support to manage these symptoms. Journaling, avoiding coffee, and attending support groups to discuss your worries are all great methods to manage these symptoms.
Anxiety can be a challenge to manage and may cause many physical symptoms including restlessness, muscular tension, digestive issues headaches, fatigue, and restlessness. It can also affect your sleep. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often experience difficulty relaxing and have a hard time focusing on tasks at the moment. They may also feel a constant feeling of self-doubt, or worry that they've are letting others down.
In certain instances those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to acknowledge their need for treatment because they feel that they are not "sick enough" or don't deserve the treatment. This is particularly the case for those suffering from ACEs (adverse childhood experiences) which can have long-lasting consequences for mental health.
Treatment is beneficial to high functioning anxiety sufferers as it allows them to be more aware of their anxiety and learn how they can deal with it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), along with medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options to treat. CBT helps patients change their thinking patterns and understand their distortions. It can teach them how to shift their thinking and discover solutions to the problems they face.
The use of alcohol and drugs
People suffering from anxiety disorders that are high functioning often use drugs and alcohol as a way to self-medicate. Other methods of relief include diet changes as well as exercise and decaf coffee. However, these coping strategies are not a long-term solution. They can actually increase their anxiety symptoms and lead to addiction-related disorders. They can also cause other health issues, such as digestive distress and heart problems.
High-functioning anxiety can appear to be a positive trait. However, it has serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that people who suffer from anxiety are at a greater risk of having a cardiac event. They are more likely to experience stomach issues and sleep problems. Stress can also impact their performance at work. They might feel pressured to perform better than other people and this can lead to tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as binge-eating or drinking.
There isn't one solution to high functioning anxiety. However, some strategies can help. Some of them include meditation, practicing mindfulness, and eating a healthy diet. A journal can be beneficial in helping you spot patterns and triggers. Also, you must try to ensure that your stress levels are in check and seek professional therapy if needed. Some people with high-functioning anxieties find it difficult to ask for help because they do not want to appear weak or unprofessional. There are many mental resources, such as online counseling that is accessible. Some of these services might even be completely free. They could be a great alternative to in-person treatment for those who aren't able to afford traditional treatment.