Why We Are In Love With High Functioning Anxiety Disorder (And You Should Too!)
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They might appear to have their lives together—or even be labeled as overachievers—but underneath, they are struggling with extreme stress and anxiety. Chronic stress can cause them to be unable to stop thinking or sleep well, and affect their health. It is important to recognize that they need help, and it's available in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications. Overachievers People with high functioning anxiety are able to work and meet deadlines, but they are often overwhelmed by a tense energy they can't manage. They may appear professional and have a lively social life, but they are scared of failing at their job or slipping under the pressure from friends and family. They do not allow themselves to rest and continuously strive to achieve their goals. This constant anxiety may be masked by their successes and achievements but it can be detrimental to their physical and mental health. Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek treatment for their condition due to the fear that it will slow them or hurt their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their efforts. It's nevertheless important to acknowledge that you suffer from anxiety that is high-functioning and know that it is treatable. Therapy and medication can assist people in managing their symptoms. Therapists use techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter irrational beliefs that feed anxiety and help clients learn to lessen their negative ways of coping. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety tend to 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 lead to self-doubt and can cause insomnia, digestive issues, and a lack of motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create a sense of being isolated. If you're a high-achieving person, it's essential to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder. Overthinking Overthinking is common among people with high functioning anxiety disorder. They may ruminate on conversations long after the conversation has ended, or fret about details that could go awry in a forthcoming event. This can lead to anxiety and stress. It can also impact the quality of sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more likely to hypochondria. This could cause people to overdiagnose their health and be concerned that they have a serious illness. These individuals have high expectations of themselves and set very demanding goals. They feel that they'll never reach perfection, despite positive feedback. They work constantly and are pushing themselves beyond their limits which can lead to burnout and exhaustion. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy can improve their coping skills by addressing their symptoms. For instance, they should try to get enough sleep and eat an appropriate diet. They should also stay away from caffeine and other stimulants, as they can trigger anxiety symptoms. Participating in group therapy sessions can also help them find help from others who are suffering from anxiety. Psychotherapy is typically the first step in treating anxiety that is high functioning, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapies can help people to understand the connection between their feelings and thoughts. They can also teach them how to change negative thinking patterns and react to stressful situations in more effective ways. Additionally, people who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from taking medication. This includes antidepressants such as 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 Self-care deficiency is a sign of high functioning anxiety. It can manifest in a variety of forms, ranging from not getting enough rest to not eating meals. This can also include avoidance of people or situations that trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be difficult for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to acknowledge that they need help, since they tend to see their anxiety as positive characteristics, like perfectionism or fear of failure. The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning may be a physical manifestation like chronic migraines or digestive issues. It can also be coupled with a lack of interest in hobbies or work or a constant feeling of unease. If the symptoms persist it is essential to consult a medical professional. Even if the symptoms are moderate, it is crucial to recognize them as red flags. They are a signal that you require medical treatment. For instance, an executive may find that their constant worry is hindering their sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakening of the immune system. For instance, a student who has high functioning anxiety might find that they are losing too much sleep and it is impacting their grades. You should also establish appropriate boundaries for those who are demanding lots of your time. This could include managers, family, and people who want you to take on more than you're able to handle. Limiting stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, which can trigger anxiety, can also help. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment options as those suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medications according to the severity. This can include the practice of mindfulness, learning to cultivate self-compassion, and avoiding or engaging in self-talk that is negative. Social isolation Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at concealing their internal struggles. They are able to continue to perform their obligations and appear successful on the outside, but are struggling to manage their anxiety-related feelings. If left untreated, the anxiety may become debilitating. They can interfere with everyday activities. To help combat these symptoms, it is crucial to seek out social support and implement stress management strategies. This includes journaling, avoiding caffeine, and attending an organization that helps you share your concerns with others. Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage. It can trigger many physical symptoms, including restlessness, headaches, digestive issues and fatigue. In addition, it can influence your sleep. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often experience problems with relaxation and have a hard time paying attention to the tasks at hand. They may also experience an overwhelming feeling of self-doubt and anxiety that they are doing something wrong for others. Some patients with high-functioning anxiety may be unwilling to seek out mental health care because they believe that they are “not sick enough” or don't deserve the treatment. This is especially relevant for those suffering from ACEs which can have a a lasting effect on mental health. Treatment is beneficial to people with high functioning anxiety because it helps them be more aware of their anxiety and learn how they can deal with it. Talk therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are all options to treat. CBT assists patients in recognizing and change their thinking patterns. It can also teach the patient to reframe their thinking and discover solutions to the worries they have about the future. Turning to drugs and alcohol People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often use drugs and alcohol as a means of self-medicating. They might also attempt to seek relief through diet changes, exercise, decaf coffee or other methods. But these strategies for coping are not an effective long-term solution. disorders anxiety can actually increase their anxiety symptoms and cause addiction disorders. They can also cause other health issues, such as digestive distress and heart problems. Although anxiety that is high-functioning may appear to be a positive quality however, it can also have serious repercussions. According to researchers, those who suffer from anxiety are more likely to be at a higher risk of having heart attacks. They are also more likely to develop gastrointestinal issues and may have trouble sleeping. High-functioning anxiety may affect their performance at work. They may feel the need to perform better than others, which can lead to stress and tension. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as binge-eating or drinking. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to treat high functioning anxiety however, certain strategies could aid. Some include meditating, practicing mindfulness and eating a balanced diet. Journals can be helpful to help you recognize patterns and triggers. In the end, it is important to ensure that your stress levels are in check and seek out professional therapy if needed. Some people with high-functioning anxieties have a difficult time asking for help since they don't want to appear weak or unprofessional. There are a variety of mental resources, such as online counseling, available. Some of these services are even free. They could be a great alternative to in-person treatments for individuals who are unable to afford traditional treatment.