11 Ways To Fully Redesign Your High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from high functioning anxiety. They might appear to have their lives together--or even be called overachievers. But underneath, they struggle with extreme stress and anxiety.
They don't stop thinking, they may not sleep well and their health suffers due to stress. It's important to recognize that they require help, which is readily available through cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a condition in which people are able to accomplish their tasks and meet deadlines, but are engulfed by a nervous energy they cannot manage. They appear professional and maintain an active social life, but within they are terrified that they'll fail their jobs or crumble under the pressure of their family and friends. They do not allow themselves to rest and continuously strive to achieve their goals. This constant anxiety can be disguised by their successes and achievements but it can be a disaster for their physical and mental well-being.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek treatment for their condition because they what are the 6 types of anxiety disorders afraid that it could slow them down or damage their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their efforts. It is important to recognize that you are suffering from generalized anxiety disorder symptoms with high-functioning and that it is able to be treated.
Talk therapy and medication can help people manage symptoms. Therapists use techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness-building to alter the belief system that feeds anxiety disorders medicine, and teach clients to lessen their negative coping mechanism. People who have high-functioning anxiety tend to internalize criticism and overreact. A therapy therapist can assist them in learning to manage their emotions, and to accept failure.
Anxiety can lead to self-doubt sleep disturbances, digestive issues, and a loss of motivation. It can also affect relationships and create an sense of loneliness. If you're an athlete it is essential to get treatment for anxiety disorders.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common in people with high functioning anxiety disorder. They can ponder conversations long after they have ended or worry about details that could go wrong at an upcoming event. This can lead to constant anxiety and stress. It can also affect the quality of sleep and concentration. People who have high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This can cause to them to overdiagnose their health and be concerned that they have a serious illness.
They have high expectations of themselves and set high-stakes goals. They are convinced that they'll never reach perfection, despite the positive feedback. They are constantly working and pushing themselves to the limits which can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
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 rest and eat healthy food. Limit caffeine and other stimulants which can cause anxiety-related symptoms to worsen. Participating in group therapy sessions can aid in finding assistance from other people who are suffering from anxiety.
Psychotherapy is often the first step to treat high functioning anxiety, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of treatments can aid people in understanding the relationship between their thoughts and feelings. They can also teach them how to change negative thought patterns and respond to stressful situations in more effective ways. People who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from medications. This can include antidepressants, such as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or SNRIs, as well as benzodiazepines for short-term relief from acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
A hallmark of anxiety with high functioning is a lack of self-care. This can come in many forms, ranging from not getting enough rest to skipping meals. It could also be about avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety. It is often difficult for someone with anxiety that is high functioning to realize that they need help because they tend to consider their anxiety as positive characteristics like perfectionism or fear.
Often, the first indication that someone is suffering from high functioning anxiety is a physical one like chronic headaches or digestive issues. This is followed by a loss of interest in hobbies, poor performance at work, or a constant sense of anxiety. If these symptoms continue it's crucial to talk to a health professional.
Even if these symptoms are mild, they should be treated as warning signs and a signal to seek treatment. For example, an executive may find that their constant worries are hindering their sleep and causing fatigue and a weakened immune system. A student with high functioning anxiety might find that they're losing too much sleep and this is generalized anxiety disorder a disability impacting their grades.
It is also important to establish healthy boundaries for people who take up a lot of your time. This could include family members, friends, or managers who demand you to do more than you are able to handle. It can also include limiting stimulants, such as caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to anxiety-related symptoms.
People with high functioning anxiety can benefit from the same treatment that is available to people suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy), lifestyle changes, and medication according to the severity. This includes taking a mindfulness class, learning how to practice self-compassion and avoiding or confronting negative self-talk.
Lack of social support
Many people who suffer from high functioning anxiety are skilled in securing their inner struggles. They may continue to perform their everyday tasks and appear to be doing well, but they may not be able to cope with the anxiety. If they are not treated, these feelings can eventually become chronic and disrupt daily functions. It is crucial to take control of stress and seek social support to manage these symptoms. This includes journaling, avoiding caffeine, and attending a support group to share your concerns with others.
Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage and can cause a wide range of physical symptoms like restlessness, digestive issues, muscle tension, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, it may affect how you sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety may have difficulty getting their attention off the task at hand. They may also feel a constant feeling of self-doubt or anxiety that they've have let others down.
In some instances those with high functioning anxiety have difficulty to acknowledge their need for mental health treatment because they believe they aren't "sick enough" or that they are not worthy of it. This is especially the case for those suffering from ACEs (adverse childhood experiences), which can have long-lasting impacts on mental health.
Treatment can be beneficial to high functioning anxiety sufferers, as it helps them better understand their anxiety and discover ways to cope with it. Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as medication like selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options to treat. CBT helps patients identify and alter their thinking patterns. It can teach them how to shift their thinking and discover solutions to any future issues they have.
Turning to drugs and alcohol
Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs is common for people who suffer from high functioning anxieties. They might also attempt to seek relief through diet changes or exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. These coping strategies don't provide a lasting solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms, and result in substance abuse disorders. Additionally, they could lead to other health problems like heart problems and gastrointestinal discomfort.
While high-functioning anxiety may appear to be a positive characteristic but it can cause serious harm. According to research, those who experience anxiety are more likely to be at an increased risk of having heart attacks. They are also more likely to develop gastrointestinal issues and may have trouble sleeping. Anxiety that is high-functioning can affect their performance at work. They may feel pressured to perform better than other people, which can lead to tension and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits such as binge-eating or drinking.
There isn't one solution for high functioning anxiety. However, certain strategies can help. Some of them include meditation, practicing mindfulness, and eating a healthy diet. Journals can be beneficial in helping you identify patterns and triggers. Also, you must try to ensure that your stress levels are under control and seek professional therapy if you need. It can be difficult for someone with high-functioning anxiety to ask for assistance because they do not want to be perceived as weak or a failure. There are a variety of mental resources, including online counseling that is available. Some of these services are free. They could be a great alternative to in-person treatment for individuals who are unable to pay for traditional treatments.