If You've Just Purchased High Functioning Anxiety Disorder ... Now What?
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from anxiety that is high-functioning. They may appear to be in control of their lives, or be referred to as "overachievers" however, they're actually struggling with severe anxiety and stress.
They don't stop thinking They may not be able to sleep well and their health is impacted due to chronic stress. It is important to recognize that they require assistance, which is accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.
Overachievers
People with high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, yet they're often engulfed by a fearful energy they aren't able to control. They may appear professional and have a busy social life, but are terrified of failing at their job or falling apart under the pressure from friends and family. They never give themselves time to rest and are constantly striving to be the best they can be. This constant anxiety can be masked by their achievements and successes but can be devastating for their mental and physical well-being.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek help for their conditions because they fear it will slow them down or damage their career. They don't wish to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their hard work. It's important to realize that you have high-functioning anxiousness and that it is able to be treated.
Talk therapy and medication can help people manage symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to shift the belief system that feeds anxiety and teach clients how to manage their negative coping mechanism. People with high-functioning anxiety often react to criticism in a way that they take it in, so the therapist can help them learn how to manage their feelings and become more accepting of failure.
Anxiety can trigger self-doubt and can cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems and a lack motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create a sense of isolation. If you're a high-achieving person it is essential to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
People who have high functioning anxiety disorders tend to be overthinking. They may mull over conversations long after they have concluded or worry about the details that could go wrong in an future event. This can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People who suffer from high functioning anxiety are also susceptible to hypochondria. This can cause them to misdiagnose health problems and worry that they are suffering from a serious illness.
They have high expectations for themselves and set high-stakes goals. They believe that they will never achieve perfection, despite positive feedback. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limits and can lead to burning out and exhaustion.
In addition to therapy, those who have high functioning anxiety can improve their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For example, they should try to get enough sleep and eat nutritious meals. Limit caffeine and other stimulants that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Attending group therapy sessions can assist them in gaining assistance from other people who suffer from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is usually the first step to treat high functioning anxiety, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of therapies can help people understand the connection between their thoughts and feelings. They can also help them learn how to alter negative thought patterns and respond to stressful situations in more effective ways. Additionally, people with high functioning anxiety can benefit from medications. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines are used to treat acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
One of the most common signs of anxiety that is high functioning is an inability to take care of yourself. This can come in many forms, ranging from not getting enough sleep to not eating meals. It could also be a matter of avoiding places or people that trigger anxiety. It can be difficult for someone with high functioning anxiety to realize that they require help, as they may think of their anxiety as positive characteristics like perfectionists or fear.
The first sign of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom, such as chronic migraines or digestive issues. generalized anxiety disorder can also be associated with an absence of enthusiasm for activities or work or a constant feeling of unease. If these symptoms continue it is important to talk to a medical professional.
Even if the symptoms are mild, they should be treated as red flags and a signal to seek treatment. For example an executive might find that their constant worries are making it difficult for them to sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakened immune system. Similarly, a student with high functioning anxiety might find that they are losing too much sleep and it is negatively impacting their performance.
It is also important to set appropriate boundaries with people in your life who expect a lot of your time. This includes managers, family, and people who want you to do more than you're capable of handling. It could also mean limiting stimulants, such as alcohol and caffeine, which can trigger anxiety symptoms.
People with high functioning anxiety can benefit from the same treatment that is available to those suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy), changes in lifestyle, and medication dependent on the severity. This includes practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and the ability to challenge or avoid negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people suffering from high functioning anxiety have a knack of hiding their inner struggles. They are able to continue to perform their life's responsibilities and appear successful on outside, but may be unable to cope with the anxiety they feel. Untreated, these feelings may become chronic. They can hinder everyday activities. It is crucial to practice stress management and seek out support from friends to help combat these symptoms. The practice of journaling, avoiding coffee and attending support groups to talk about your concerns are all good methods to manage these symptoms.
Anxiety can be difficult to manage and may cause an array of physical symptoms like restlessness, digestive issues, muscle tension headaches, fatigue, and more. In addition, it may affect how you sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety have difficulty in focusing and relaxing for the task at the moment. They may also experience a constant sense of self-doubt and fear that they're falling short of others.
Certain patients with high-functioning anxiety are not inclined to seek mental health care because they believe that they are "not sick enough" or do not deserve the treatment. This is particularly relevant for those suffering from ACEs which can have a an impact on mental health.
Treatment is beneficial for anxious people who have high functioning because it helps them better understand their anxiety and understand how to deal with it. Treatment choices include therapy for talk, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients identify and change their thinking patterns. It can also help them to reframe their thoughts and find solutions to the anxiety they feel about the future.
Relapse to alcohol and drugs
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often utilize alcohol and/or drugs as a means of self-medicating. Other methods of relief include dietary changes and exercise, or decaf coffee. These strategies for coping are not a long-lasting solution. They can actually exacerbate their anxiety symptoms and can lead to addiction-related disorders. They can also lead to other health issues, like digestive distress and heart problems.
The presence of anxiety in high-functioning individuals can appear to be an advantage. However, it can have serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that those who suffer from anxiety are at a greater risk of experiencing a heart event. They are more likely to suffer from stomach issues and sleep issues. Anxiety that is high-functioning can affect their performance at work. They may feel pressured to perform better than others which can cause anxiety and stress. This could result in unhealthy habits such as binge-eating and drinking.
There isn't a single solution for high functioning anxiety. However, some strategies can help. Some include meditating, focusing on mindfulness and a healthy diet. Journals can be helpful to help you identify patterns and triggers. Finally, you should try to make sure your stress levels are under control and seek out professional therapy if you need. People with high-functioning anxiety have a difficult time asking 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 free. These services are an excellent alternative to traditional in-person therapies for those who cannot afford them.