High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They may appear to be in control of their lives, or even be referred to as "overachievers" however they're actually struggling with severe anxiety and stress.
Chronic stress can cause them to be in a state of mind that is difficult to control or sleep well, and have a negative impact on their health. It's important to recognize that they require help, which is accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
Overachievers
People who have high functioning anxiety are able to work and meet deadlines, yet they're often consumed by a fearful energy they can't control. They appear professional and live a full social life, but within they fear they'll fail at their jobs or collapse under the pressure of family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and constantly strive for perfection. This constant anxiety may be masked by their achievements and successes but can be devastating for their physical and mental health.
Overachievers might also be reluctant to seek assistance for their condition due to the fear that it could cause them to lose speed or damage their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, particularly those who have praised their hard work. Nevertheless, it's important to recognize that you suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning and understand that it can be treated.
Therapy and medication can help people manage their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to change irrational belief that feed anxiety and teach clients to lessen their negative coping mechanism. People with high-functioning anxieties often internalize criticism and overreact. A counselor can help them learn to manage their emotions, and to accept their failures.
Anxiety can cause self-doubt, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and a loss of motivation. It can also eat away at relationships and cause a sense of being isolated. If you are a high achiever It is crucial to seek out treatment for anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People with high functioning anxiety disorder are often prone to overthinking. They can ponder conversations long after they have ended or obsess over things that could go wrong at an future event. This can lead to constant stress and anxiety. It can also impact sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also prone to hypochondria. This could cause them to overdiagnose health concerns and be concerned that they may be suffering from a serious illness.
They have high expectations of themselves and set extremely demanding goals. Despite the positive feedback they receive they feel like they're always failing and will never achieve the level of perfection. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limits and can lead to burning out and exhaustion.
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy can improve their coping abilities by managing their symptoms. For example they should get enough sleep and adhere to a healthy diet. Limit caffeine and other stimulants which can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. In addition they can seek out support from people who are suffering from anxiety by attending group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step to combating anxiety with high functioning. This includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapy are able to aid people in understanding the ways in which their thoughts and feelings are linked. They can show them how to change negative thought patterns, and how to respond to stressful situations more effectively. In addition, those who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from medications. This could include antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs as well as benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
Lack of self-care is a symptom of high functioning anxiety. This can take many forms including not getting enough sleep to not eating meals. It can also mean avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety. It can also be difficult for people with high functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need assistance, as they tend to see their anxiety as positive traits such as perfectionists or fear of failure.
The most common sign that an individual has anxiety with high functioning is a physical one, such as chronic headaches or digestive problems. This can be accompanied by an absence of enthusiasm for hobbies or work or a constant feeling of unease. If these symptoms continue it's crucial to talk to a medical professional.
Even if these symptoms are mild it is important to treat them as warning signs and an indication to seek treatment. For example an executive might find that their constant worry is hindering their sleep and causing fatigue and a weakened immune system. A student with high functioning anxiety may find that they are unable to get much sleep, and it's affecting their academic performance.
It is also important to establish limits for people who are demanding lots of your time. This can include family members, friends, and managers who want you do more than you can handle. It could also mean limiting stimulants, such as caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to anxiety 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 includes practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at securing their internal struggles. They may continue to complete their everyday tasks and appear to be doing well however they may not be able to cope with the anxiety. If left untreated, the anxiety may turn into a debilitating. They can affect everyday activities. To combat these symptoms, it's essential to seek out support from others and employ stress management techniques. The practice of journaling, avoiding coffee and joining support groups to discuss your worries are all excellent ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety is difficult to manage. It can trigger many physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach issues, and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People who have high functioning anxiety often experience difficulty relaxing and are unable to paying attention to the tasks at hand. They might also feel an unending feeling of self-doubt or anxiety that they've have let others down.
In some instances those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to recognize their need for treatment because they believe they are not "sick enough" or do not deserve the treatment. disorders anxiety is especially relevant for those suffering from ACEs that can have a a lasting effect on mental health.
Treatment can be beneficial to people with high functioning anxiety, as it helps them understand their anxiety better and learn how they can manage it. Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), along with medication, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options for treatment. CBT assists patients to change their thinking patterns and understand their distortions. It can teach them how to reframe thoughts and find solutions for the future worries they have.
Relapse to alcohol and drugs
Self-medicating through alcohol and other drugs is common among people who suffer from anxiety disorders that cause high functioning. Other methods of relief include diet changes, exercise or decaf coffee. These coping strategies do not provide a lasting solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and lead to substance abuse disorders. Additionally, they may lead to other health problems like heart problems and stomach distress.
High-functioning anxiety is often seen as an advantage. However, it has grave consequences. According to research, people who experience anxiety are more likely to have a higher chance of having an attack on their heart. They are also more likely to experience digestive issues and may have difficulty sleeping. Anxiety that is high-functioning can also affect their work performance. They may feel the need to perform better than others and this can lead to tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as binge-eating or drinking.
There is no single solution for anxiety that is high functioning. However, certain strategies can be helpful. Some include meditating, focusing on mindfulness, and eating a healthy diet. Journals can be helpful to identify patterns and triggers. Also, you must try to ensure that your stress levels are under control and seek professional therapy if needed. People with high-functioning anxiety are hesitant to ask for help since they don't want to appear weak or incompetent. There are a lot of mental health services available, including online counseling. Some of these services might even be completely free. These services can be an excellent alternative to traditional in-person treatments for those who can't pay for them.