High Functioning Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest in different ways and can be challenging to identify, especially when someone is high-functioning. High functioning anxiety is a type of anxiety that may not be obvious to those around the person who is experiencing it, but it can still be debilitating. Here at Authentic Connections, we want to provide some education regarding what high functioning anxiety looks like, how it can impact your life, and what you can do to manage it.

What is High Functioning Anxiety?

High functioning anxiety is a form of anxiety in which individuals can maintain their daily responsibilities and activities despite experiencing significant anxiety. They may appear to be functioning well on the surface, but inwardly, they may be struggling with intense feelings of worry, fear, and anxiety.

Signs of High Functioning Anxiety

If you suspect you or someone you know may have high functioning anxiety, here are some common signs to look out for:

• Perfectionism: Individuals with high functioning anxiety may have high standards for themselves, and they may feel intense pressure to achieve their goals.
• Overthinking and ruminating: They may overthink and worry about the future, past, and present, often struggling to make decisions or take action.

• Constant need for control: They may feel the need to control everything around them, often to avoid the discomfort of uncertainty or fear.
• Difficulty relaxing: They may have difficulty relaxing or enjoying downtime, feeling guilty or anxious about taking a break.
• Fear of failure: Individuals with high functioning anxiety may have a deep-seated fear of failure, and they may struggle to accept anything less than perfect.
• Difficulty sleeping: They may struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep due to racing thoughts and worries.

The Impacts of High Functioning Anxiety

High functioning anxiety can impact every area of life, from work to personal relationships. It can lead to feelings of exhaustion, burnout, and frustration, as well as physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and stomach problems. It can also contribute to a cycle of unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overworking, avoiding uncomfortable situations, or turning to substances to manage anxiety. If you or someone you know might be showing these signs, please direct them to Authentic Connections, where we have therapists trained in treating anxiety and providing healthier coping  skills. 

Managing High Functioning Anxiety

If you suspect you may have high functioning anxiety, there are steps you can take to manage it. But if this process feels too overwhelming, you are always welcome to reach out to our office at Authentic Connections. 

For now, here are some tips:

Practice self-care: Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. This means prioritizing your own needs and desires, engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Challenge negative thoughts: Learn to recognize and challenge negative thoughts that contribute to anxiety. Ask yourself if your worries are realistic or if there is evidence to support them.

Establish boundaries: Learning to set boundaries is crucial in managing high functioning anxiety. Start by identifying your needs and limits, and communicate them clearly to others.

Seek professional help: If you're struggling to manage your anxiety on your own, consider seeking professional help. Any one of our therapists at Authentic Connections can help you identify and address underlying issues and provide guidance and support as you work to manage your anxiety.

High functioning anxiety may not be obvious to those around you, but it can still be debilitating. By recognizing the signs of high functioning anxiety and taking steps to manage it, you can begin to live a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. At Authentic Connections Counseling Center in Castle Rock we see seeking help as a sign of strength and taking care of your mental health is essential for your overall well-being.

At Authentic Connections Counseling Center, we make it our mission to assign clients to the right therapists and we promise to involve you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and cared for throughout the entire process. If you would like help in this journey of managing your or a loved ones anxiety, we are here to find a therapist that meets your needs and aligns with your values. If you’re ready to make the phone call, please reach out to us at 720-370-3010 or email us at info@authenticconnectionscounseling.com for more information. The right therapist can make all the difference in your anxiety levels and overall well-being and we would be honored to be that difference in your life!