Anxiety that operates efficiently but generates excessive worry and tension: Characteristics, indicators, and further insights
High-functioning anxiety is a condition where individuals experience persistent anxiety internally, yet manage to perform daily tasks and maintain external appearances of success. They may appear capable and composed outwardly while struggling with intense worry and self-doubt inside.
Common Symptoms
People with high-functioning anxiety often exhibit persistent excessive worry and nervousness about everyday matters. Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach issues, insomnia, and fatigue are common due to chronic anxiety. Nervous habits like restlessness or fidgeting may also be present.
High achievers with high-functioning anxiety often struggle with perfectionism, high achievement, and fear of failure or losing control, often with a Type A personality profile. Difficulty sleeping and trouble relaxing due to ongoing anxious thoughts are also prevalent. Internal feelings of overwhelm and fear that something bad will happen, despite appearing “fine” externally, are common.
Causes and Triggers
The causes of high-functioning anxiety are not fully understood, but genetic factors that predispose individuals to anxiety disorders play a role. Environmental stressors such as work pressure, personal expectations, or major life changes can also contribute.
High-functioning anxiety may be exacerbated by internalized societal pressures or unrealistic self-expectations. Sometimes, underlying health conditions can contribute to anxiety symptoms.
Treatment Options
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective psychological treatment for high-functioning anxiety. It helps by identifying and challenging negative thoughts, teaching coping skills, and managing anxiety symptoms effectively.
Medications, including SSRIs and SNRIs, may be prescribed to reduce anxiety symptoms, especially if anxiety is severe or persistent. Lifestyle changes and coping strategies such as deep breathing, journaling, stress reduction techniques, and self-care can improve overall well-being.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can also be helpful by encouraging acceptance of anxious feelings and focusing on living a meaningful life despite anxiety. Personalized treatment plans are important, as no single approach fits all cases.
Seeking Help
If you experience regular symptoms of anxiety, cannot control the symptoms, anxiety affects your relationships, health, or self-esteem, use alcohol or drugs to manage symptoms, develop symptoms of other mental health issues, such as depression, it is essential to contact your doctor. A doctor may perform a physical check to rule out an underlying medical condition causing anxiety symptoms.
Only 36.9% of those with an anxiety disorder receive treatment. People with high-functioning anxiety may be less likely than others to seek treatment, as they may view some symptoms, such as perfectionism, as positive traits that help them progress and achieve. However, it is crucial to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and a step towards a healthier, more balanced life.
In summary, high-functioning anxiety masks internal distress behind an outward appearance of competence but involves persistent worry, physical symptoms, and perfectionism fueled by genetic and environmental factors. Treatment typically involves therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to individual needs.
Mental health self-care, such as deep breathing exercises and journaling, can help to improve overall well-being in individuals with high-functioning anxiety.
A common cause of high-functioning anxiety is the internalization of societal pressures or unrealistic self-expectations.
The science of medicine offers treatment options like cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications to reduce anxiety symptoms in those with high-functioning anxiety.
