High‚ÄëFunctioning Anxiety in Professionals: When Success Hides Struggle
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Marco M. Zahedi
Medical Director, Compassion Recovery Center
Dr. Michael Majeski
Licensed Psychologist (LP), Compassion Recovery Center
Table of Contents
Understanding High-Functioning Anxiety in Professionals
In the bustling world of Orange County, California, where success is often measured by outward achievements, deadlines loom, and the pressure to perform is constant, it’s easy for internal struggles to go unnoticed. Many professionals navigate this high-stakes environment while quietly battling what’s known as high-functioning anxiety. On the surface, these individuals appear to have it all together – they are driven, successful, organized, and often seen as leaders or top performers. They meet deadlines, excel in their careers, and manage complex responsibilities with seeming ease. Yet, beneath this polished exterior lies a hidden world of persistent worry, self-doubt, and a constant internal pressure to be perfect. This is the paradox of high-functioning anxiety: achieving external success while experiencing significant internal distress. High-functioning anxiety isn’t a formal clinical diagnosis in the way generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder are classified. Instead, it’s a term used to describe a pattern of behavior and internal experience. People with high-functioning anxiety might meet the criteria for other anxiety disorders, but their symptoms don’t typically interfere with their ability to function in daily life – at least not in ways that are obvious to others. They often channel their anxiety into productivity, using worry as fuel for preparation, organization, and hard work. While this can lead to remarkable achievements, it comes at a significant cost to their mental and physical well-being. The internal struggle is relentless, marked by racing thoughts, a constant need for reassurance, fear of failure, and an inability to truly relax. This internal turmoil can lead to burnout, physical health issues, and strained relationships, and can sometimes contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use. Recognizing this internal conflict is the first step toward finding effective ways to manage it and reclaim peace. Many professionals in areas like Orange County are discovering that flexible, accessible treatment options, such as remote rehab or virtual IOP programs, offer a path to addressing these challenges without disrupting their demanding lives.
Understanding High-Functioning Anxiety: Characteristics, Symptoms, and Impact
High-functioning anxiety manifests differently in different people, but several common characteristics and symptoms are often present. Unlike someone whose anxiety might prevent them from leaving the house or holding down a job, individuals with high-functioning anxiety often use their anxiety to push themselves harder. They are frequently perfectionists, meticulously organized, and have an intense fear of making mistakes or disappointing others. Procrastination is rare; instead, they might complete tasks far ahead of schedule, driven by the fear of missing a deadline or not doing a good enough job. Characteristics and symptoms commonly associated with high-functioning anxiety include: – Perfectionism: An obsessive need for things to be just right, leading to excessive checking, redoing work, and difficulty delegating. – Overachievement: Constantly striving for more success, promotions, or accolades, not necessarily out of ambition alone, but driven by a fear of failure or inadequacy. – Intense Need for Control: A feeling of unease or panic when things are unpredictable or outside of their control, leading to rigid planning and difficulty adapting to change. – Difficulty Relaxing: Feeling guilty when not being productive, struggling to unwind, or having a mind that is always racing with worries or to-do lists. – People-Pleasing: An excessive need for external validation and approval, often saying yes to commitments they don’t have time for or agreeing with others to avoid conflict. – Fear of Failure (and Success): Worrying excessively about not meeting expectations (their own and others’) but also sometimes feeling overwhelmed or anxious by success, fearing they won’t be able to maintain it. – Imposter Syndrome: A persistent feeling of being a fraud or inadequate despite evidence of success. They worry they will be “found out.” – Physical Symptoms: Anxiety often manifests physically, including muscle tension, fatigue, digestive issues, headaches, difficulty sleeping, and restlessness. – Overthinking and Rumination: Constantly analyzing past events or worrying about future possibilities, often getting stuck in negative thought loops. – Avoiding Conflict: Going to great lengths to avoid confrontation or difficult conversations due to fear of upsetting others or not handling it perfectly. – Strict Routines and Habits: Relying heavily on routines to feel safe and in control, becoming anxious when these routines are disrupted. How does this differ from other anxiety disorders? While there’s overlap, the key difference is the outward presentation and level of functionality. Someone with severe social anxiety might avoid social situations altogether; someone with high-functioning anxiety might attend parties or networking events but experience intense internal distress, worrying about saying the wrong thing or being judged. Someone with generalized anxiety disorder might struggle with daily tasks due to pervasive worry; someone with high-functioning anxiety uses their worry to fuel their drive and organization, making them appear highly competent. However, the internal experience of excessive worry, dread, and physical tension can be just as debilitating as in other anxiety disorders. The impact of high-functioning anxiety on personal and professional life is significant, even if not immediately visible. Professionally, it can lead to burnout, difficulty collaborating effectively (due to control issues or fear of conflict), inability to delegate, and eventually, decreased productivity despite the initial push. Personally, it strains relationships as partners, family, or friends may feel neglected due to overworking, or misunderstood because the internal struggle isn’t apparent. The constant state of internal vigilance is exhausting, leading to chronic fatigue and physical health problems. Furthermore, the inability to tolerate uncomfortable feelings can sometimes lead individuals to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs, inadvertently developing substance use issues alongside their anxiety. This is where alcohol rehab programs or drug rehab programs, often combined with mental health treatment in a dual diagnosis treatment approach, become crucial. Recognizing the multifaceted impact is vital for seeking appropriate support.The Professional Environment and Anxiety
The modern workplace, particularly in competitive areas like Orange County, can be a breeding ground for anxiety, and for those prone to high-functioning anxiety, it can exacerbate existing tendencies. The constant pressure to perform, meet tight deadlines, innovate, and demonstrate value can intensify fears of failure and inadequacy. Cultures that glorify overwork, reward constant connectivity, and blur the lines between work and personal life contribute to the problem. The “busyness as a badge of honor” mentality means taking breaks or admitting to feeling overwhelmed can be perceived as weakness, further isolating individuals struggling with anxiety. The role of perfectionism and overachievement in this environment is particularly insidious. Professionals with high-functioning anxiety often feel compelled to be perfect in everything they do. This isn’t just about doing a good job; it’s about doing a flawless job, anticipating every potential issue, and preparing for every conceivable outcome. This level of effort is unsustainable and fuels the anxiety cycle. The fear of criticism or making a mistake drives the perfectionism, and the perfectionism, in turn, increases workload and stress, leading to more anxiety. Overachievement becomes a coping mechanism – if I work harder than everyone else and achieve more, maybe I can outrun the feeling of not being good enough. But the finish line keeps moving. Consider these common professional scenarios for someone with high-functioning anxiety: – Presentations: Instead of preparing adequately, they might spend excessive hours crafting slides, rehearsing incessantly, and worrying about every possible question or technical glitch. The anxiety about public speaking is compounded by anxiety about delivering a perfect presentation. – Emails: Crafting the perfect email can take far too long, rereading it multiple times, worrying about the tone, and second-guessing every word, driven by the fear of being misunderstood or appearing incompetent. – Meetings: They might over-prepare, feel pressure to contribute brilliantly, or conversely, stay silent for fear of saying something wrong, all while their mind races with anxious thoughts. – Deadlines: While they usually meet them (or beat them), the process leading up to the deadline is filled with intense pressure, late nights, and worry about not finishing or the quality of the final product not being perfect. – Delegation: They struggle to delegate tasks because they believe only they can do it perfectly or fear that others’ mistakes will reflect poorly on them. This leads to taking on too much work, increasing stress and anxiety. – Feedback: Even positive feedback can trigger imposter syndrome, and critical feedback, no matter how constructive, can feel devastating, confirming their deepest fears of not being good enough. These scenarios highlight how the professional environment can amplify the internal struggles of high-functioning anxiety. The very qualities that might be praised in the workplace – dedication, attention to detail, proactiveness – can be fueled by an underlying anxiety that is slowly eroding well-being. Recognizing the interplay between personal anxiety and workplace pressures is essential for developing effective strategies for managing it. For professionals in demanding fields in areas like Orange County, finding mental health support that understands these unique challenges and offers flexible solutions like remote IOP is incredibly valuable.
Identifying High-Functioning Anxiety in Yourself and Others
Recognizing high-functioning anxiety can be tricky precisely because the individual often appears successful and capable. They may minimize their struggles or hide them to maintain their image. However, there are signs to look for, both in yourself and in colleagues, friends, or family members. Signs to look for in yourself: – Constant Worry: Do you find your mind is always active, worrying about past events, future possibilities, or potential mistakes? Is it hard to switch off? – Inability to Tolerate Uncertainty: Do you feel stressed or anxious when you don’t have all the information or when plans are not set in stone? – Over-Preparation: Do you spend excessive time preparing for things, often far beyond what is necessary? – Difficulty Delegating: Do you find it hard to entrust tasks to others, believing you can do it better or faster yourself? – Fear of Failure: Does the prospect of making a mistake feel catastrophic? – Physical Symptoms: Do you frequently experience headaches, stomach issues, muscle tension (especially in the neck, shoulders, or jaw), or fatigue without a clear medical cause? – Sleep Problems: Do you struggle to fall asleep because your mind is racing, or do you wake up frequently worrying? – People-Pleasing Tendencies: Do you go out of your way to avoid conflict or gain approval, even if it means sacrificing your own needs? – Restlessness or Fidgeting: Do you find it hard to sit still or feel physically agitated? – Over-Commitment: Do you say yes to too many things, feeling overwhelmed but unable to say no? – Comparing Yourself to Others: Do you constantly measure your success and worth against those around you, often feeling inadequate? – Using Substances to Cope: Do you find yourself relying on alcohol, drugs, or even excessive caffeine to manage stress, unwind, or quiet your racing thoughts? This is a critical sign that professional help, potentially including alcohol rehab programs or drug rehab programs, is needed. Signs to look for in colleagues or others: – Always Busy/Working: They are consistently the first to arrive and last to leave, work through lunches, and are responsive at all hours. – Meticulously Organized: Their workspace is immaculate, their schedules packed, and they plan everything to the minute. – Difficulty Relaxing/Taking Breaks: They seem uncomfortable when not actively working or planning. – Visible Physical Tension: They might clench their jaw, have tense shoulders, or seem physically restless. – Expressing Excessive Worry (when comfortable): In private conversations, they might express disproportionate worry about minor issues. – Canceling Plans Last Minute: They might cancel social commitments due to feeling overwhelmed, tired, or needing to work. – Seeking Reassurance: They might repeatedly ask for confirmation that their work is satisfactory. – Resistance to Delegation: They prefer to do everything themselves. – Perfectionistic Tendencies: They might express frustration or anxiety over minor imperfections. The importance of self-awareness cannot be overstated. Recognizing these patterns in yourself is the critical first step towards seeking help and making changes. It requires looking past the outward appearance of success and acknowledging the internal cost. Peer support, whether through trusted friends, family, or support groups, can also be helpful in identifying these signs, as sometimes others can see the impact of anxiety more clearly than the individual experiencing it. However, professional help is often necessary to develop effective, long-term coping strategies and address underlying issues. If you or someone you know in the Orange County area is exhibiting these signs, especially if they involve using substances to cope, reaching out for a Free Assessment with a center like Compassion Recovery Center, which offers virtual rehab California services, can be a life-changing step.Coping Mechanisms and Strategies for Managing Anxiety
While professional treatment is often the most effective long-term solution for high-functioning anxiety, there are many coping mechanisms and strategies that professionals can implement in their daily lives to help manage symptoms and reduce the overall impact of anxiety. These strategies focus on building resilience, managing stress, and creating healthier boundaries. Practical tips for managing anxiety in a professional setting: – Time Management & Prioritization: Instead of letting anxiety drive you to do everything at once, learn to prioritize tasks effectively. Break down large projects into smaller, manageable steps. Use to-do lists and scheduling tools to feel more in control, but allow for flexibility. – Setting Boundaries: This is crucial for professionals. Learn to say no to additional commitments when your plate is full. Establish clear boundaries between work time and personal time. Avoid checking emails late at night or on weekends unless absolutely necessary. Communicate these boundaries to colleagues and supervisors where appropriate. – Taking Regular Breaks: Step away from your desk or workspace throughout the day. Even short breaks can help reduce stress and improve focus. Go for a walk, stretch, or simply rest your eyes. – Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Integrating mindfulness into your routine can help you stay present and reduce rumination about the past or future. Simple practices like deep breathing exercises can be done anywhere, anytime. Progressive muscle relaxation or guided meditation apps can also be beneficial. – Regular Exercise: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Aim for regular exercise that you enjoy, whether it’s hitting the gym, doing yoga, running, or simply walking. – Healthy Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize getting enough quality sleep. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Avoid screens before bed. – Healthy Diet: Nourish your body with balanced meals. Limit caffeine and sugar, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. – Connect with Others: Don’t isolate yourself. Spend time with supportive friends and family. Share your feelings with someone you trust (though remember they are not a substitute for professional help). Sometimes, just talking about your worries can lessen their intensity. – Identify and Challenge Anxious Thoughts: Learn to recognize negative or catastrophic thought patterns. Ask yourself: Is this thought based on fact or fear? What’s the most likely outcome, not the worst-case scenario? Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can be accessed through online CBT therapy, is particularly effective at teaching these skills. – Schedule Worry Time: If you find yourself worrying constantly, set aside a specific, limited time each day (e.g., 15-20 minutes) to focus only on your worries. Outside of this time, if a worry arises, acknowledge it and tell yourself you will address it during your scheduled worry time. This can help contain the anxiety. – Engage in Hobbies and Activities You Enjoy: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, unrelated to work or productivity. – Limit Exposure to Stress Triggers: If certain news, social media, or interactions consistently increase your anxiety, consider limiting your exposure. These strategies can significantly improve your ability to manage daily anxiety. However, it’s important to view them as supportive tools, not a replacement for professional treatment, especially if anxiety is severe, persistent, or leading to burnout, physical health problems, or substance use. For many professionals in areas like Orange County, the demanding nature of their work means incorporating these strategies might feel like just another thing on their to-do list. This is where the flexibility of remote treatment becomes invaluable, allowing them to access structured support that helps build these skills more effectively and address the root causes of their anxiety.Treatment Options for High-Functioning Anxiety
While coping strategies are helpful, professional treatment offers a structured and evidence-based approach to understanding and managing high-functioning anxiety more effectively. It can help individuals identify the root causes of their anxiety, challenge negative thought patterns, and develop healthier coping mechanisms that go beyond simply managing symptoms. Several therapy options have proven effective for anxiety disorders, including high-functioning anxiety: – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is one of the most common and effective therapies for anxiety. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative or irrational thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. It teaches practical techniques for reframing thoughts, facing fears gradually (exposure therapy), and developing healthier coping behaviors. Many people find online CBT therapy to be just as effective as in-person sessions, with the added convenience of accessing it from anywhere. – Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings rather than trying to eliminate them. It encourages individuals to commit to taking action based on their values, even when anxiety is present. – Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): This program teaches mindfulness techniques to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment, reducing reactivity to anxiety. – Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): While MAT is primarily associated with substance use disorder treatment, certain medications (like anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants) can be prescribed by a psychiatrist to manage severe anxiety symptoms as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It’s important to note that medication alone is rarely sufficient for addressing the underlying causes of anxiety and is most effective when combined with therapy. If substance use is a factor alongside anxiety, alcohol rehab programs or drug rehab programs often include MAT for withdrawal or cravings, integrated with therapy for the anxiety and addiction. For busy professionals, the idea of taking time off work or adding commuting to therapy appointments to an already packed schedule can feel impossible, often becoming another source of anxiety. This is where telehealth services and remote rehab programs, like those offered by Compassion Recovery Center, become a game-changer. The benefits of remote IOP and online CBT therapy for professionals with high-functioning anxiety are significant: – Flexibility and Convenience: Participate in therapy sessions and group meetings from your home or a private office during breaks, before or after work, without the need to travel. This allows you to maintain your professional responsibilities while getting help. – Accessibility: Access specialized treatment from anywhere in California, including all areas of Orange County, without being limited by geographical location. – Privacy: Receive treatment discreetly from a comfortable environment, avoiding potential encounters or questions associated with visiting a physical clinic. – Reduced Stress: Eliminate the stress of commuting, finding parking, or navigating traffic, freeing up mental and physical energy. – Integration into Daily Life: Practice coping skills in your real-world environment immediately after learning them in a session. Compassion Recovery Center specializes in providing Virtual IOP Program and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) services through telehealth, serving California residents, including those in Orange County. Our programs are designed to fit into the lives of individuals who need structure and support but cannot or do not want to attend in-person treatment. We offer comprehensive Mental Health Treatment, including therapy specifically tailored for anxiety, depression, and other co-occurring conditions. For professionals whose high-functioning anxiety has led to substance use challenges, our Dual Diagnosis Treatment provides integrated care for both addiction and mental health. Whether you need an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that meets a few times a week or a more intensive Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), our virtual options provide the structure and therapeutic support necessary for recovery. We offer Outpatient Detox for those who need medically supervised withdrawal management in a flexible setting. Our virtual rehab California programs are staffed by experienced therapists and counselors who understand the unique pressures faced by professionals. They utilize evidence-based practices like CBT and other therapeutic modalities to help you develop healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. Choosing Compassion Recovery Center means choosing a path to recovery and improved well-being that respects your professional commitments. You can learn more about our flexible Virtual IOP Program and other services by exploring our website. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but compassionate, effective help is available remotely. You can easily Verify Insurance online to see how our virtual programs are covered or Contact Us for a confidential assessment and discuss which program might be the best fit for your needs.Integrating Treatment with Professional Life
One of the biggest barriers professionals with high-functioning anxiety face when considering treatment is the fear of how it might impact their career. Concerns about time off, disclosing mental health struggles to employers, or appearing less capable can prevent them from seeking needed help. However, the rise of telehealth and remote treatment options has significantly lowered these barriers, making it much more feasible to integrate treatment into a busy professional life. Strategies for seeking help without negatively impacting your career: – Choose Remote Treatment: This is perhaps the most effective strategy. Remote virtual rehab California programs, like those offered by Compassion Recovery Center, allow you to attend therapy sessions and group meetings from your home or office, eliminating the need for significant time away from work. Our Virtual IOP Program schedule is designed with flexibility in mind, offering various times to accommodate different work schedules. – Schedule Strategically: Utilize lunch breaks, before-work hours, or after-work slots for your sessions. Many virtual programs offer evening or weekend options. – Protect Your Treatment Time: Once you’ve scheduled sessions, treat them like any other important work meeting. Block out the time in your calendar. Find a private space where you won’t be interrupted. – Understand Confidentiality: Healthcare providers are bound by strict confidentiality laws (like HIPAA). Your treatment information will not be shared with your employer without your explicit consent. – Communication with Employers (Optional & Careful): You are generally not required to disclose detailed health information to your employer. If you need to adjust your schedule for therapy, you can often simply state that you have a recurring appointment. If you feel comfortable and have a supportive workplace culture and HR department, you might choose to disclose that you are seeking support for stress or mental wellness, but this is a personal decision based on your comfort level and workplace dynamics. For FMLA or disability leave, more documentation is required, but for outpatient therapy adjustments, it’s often minimal. – Focus on Improved Performance: Frame seeking help not as a deficit, but as an investment in your long-term well-being and professional effectiveness. Managing anxiety can improve focus, reduce burnout, enhance communication, and ultimately make you a more resilient and productive professional. How to communicate with employers about mental health needs (if necessary): If you need accommodations or time off that requires disclosure (e.g., taking a longer break for a session or adjusting hours), be prepared with a plan. Focus on what you need (e.g., “I need to adjust my Friday afternoons for an ongoing medical appointment”) rather than a detailed diagnosis. If asked for documentation for significant time off or accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), your treatment provider can typically provide necessary documentation without revealing specific conditions unless required by law or the specific request. Again, with remote IOP or therapy, the need for significant disclosure is often minimized. The role of relationships, including partners and family, in supporting a professional dealing with high-functioning anxiety and potential co-occurring issues cannot be underestimated. Anxiety and overwork can strain relationships, leading to misunderstandings, conflict, and feelings of neglect. If substance use has also become an issue, the impact on relationships is even more profound. Addressing these relationship dynamics as part of the recovery process is vital. Compassion Recovery Center offers Virtual Couples Counseling Rehab, allowing individuals and their partners to work through the challenges that addiction and mental health issues have created in their relationship, all from the privacy and convenience of their own home. This integrated approach acknowledges that recovery impacts the whole family system and provides tools for healthier communication and support. Integrating treatment into your professional life is possible and, for many, essential for long-term well-being. It’s about finding solutions that fit your unique circumstances. For busy professionals in Orange County, Compassion Recovery Center’s remote drug rehab Orange County and mental health services provide a practical and effective pathway to recovery without having to step away from their careers entirely. Taking the step to get help is a sign of strength and a commitment to living a more balanced, fulfilling life, both professionally and personally. You can check insurance coverage easily online or reach out today to learn more about how our virtual programs can work for you.Conclusion
High-functioning anxiety is a significant challenge for many professionals, particularly in high-pressure environments like those common in Orange County. It’s a condition where outward success and capability mask an internal landscape of persistent worry, self-doubt, and exhaustion. The very traits that contribute to professional achievement – perfectionism, drive, meticulousness – are often fueled by this underlying anxiety, leading to burnout, physical health issues, strained relationships, and sometimes, unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance use. Recognizing the signs of high-functioning anxiety in yourself and others is the crucial first step. It requires looking beyond the surface and acknowledging the internal struggle. While self-management strategies like mindfulness, exercise, and boundaries can provide relief, professional treatment is often necessary to address the root causes and develop sustainable, healthy coping mechanisms. For busy professionals, the traditional model of inpatient or even intensive in-person outpatient treatment can seem insurmountable due to work commitments. This is where the evolution of mental health and addiction treatment, particularly through telehealth, offers a powerful solution. Remote rehab and virtual IOP programs provide flexible, accessible, and discreet care that can be integrated into a demanding schedule. Compassion Recovery Center specializes in providing these essential virtual services throughout California, including the Orange County area. Our Virtual IOP Program, Virtual PHP, and Dual Diagnosis Treatment programs offer evidence-based therapy, including online CBT therapy, counseling, and support, all delivered securely online. Whether you are struggling primarily with anxiety, or if it has led to challenges with alcohol or drugs, our compassionate team is here to help you navigate recovery without putting your professional life on hold. We understand the unique pressures you face and are equipped to provide the specialized care you need. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your strength and your commitment to your well-being. You don’t have to manage high-functioning anxiety and its consequences alone. Compassionate, effective, and flexible help is available. Take the next step towards a more peaceful and balanced life. Explore treatment options that fit your needs and your schedule. You can Verify Insurance online to understand your coverage for virtual treatment, or Contact Us today for a confidential conversation and assessment. Let us help you start your recovery journey and find freedom from the internal burden of high-functioning anxiety. Compassion Recovery Center is here to support you every step of the way with virtual rehab California services designed for people just like you. Get help for substance abuse and anxiety from the comfort of your home. Start your recovery journey today.How do people with high-functioning anxiety act?
People with high-functioning anxiety often appear successful, organized, and calm on the surface. They are typically driven, punctual, meticulous, and take on many responsibilities. However, internally, they experience persistent worry, fear of failure, self-doubt, and difficulty relaxing. They might use their anxiety as fuel for productivity, but it comes at a significant internal cost.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for anxiety?
The 3-3-3 rule is a simple grounding technique for anxiety. When feeling anxious, look around and name three things you see, then name three sounds you hear, and then move three parts of your body (like your fingers, toes, and shoulders). It helps bring your focus back to the present moment.
How is anxiety identified by professionals?
Mental health professionals identify anxiety through clinical interviews, questionnaires, and assessments. They look for patterns of excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances that are persistent and cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning, according to diagnostic criteria (like in the DSM-5). For high-functioning anxiety, they also assess how these internal symptoms contrast with outward behavior and functionality.
What are high-functioning anxiety symptoms?
Symptoms often include perfectionism, overachievement, intense need for control, difficulty relaxing, people-pleasing, fear of failure, imposter syndrome, chronic overthinking, physical tension, fatigue, sleep problems, and sometimes using substances to cope. These symptoms are often hidden behind an outward appearance of capability and success.
How to manage someone with high-functioning anxiety?
Offer support without enabling their anxiety-driven behaviors (like overworking). Encourage them to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and seek professional help. Avoid dismissing their feelings just because they appear successful. Be patient and understanding, recognizing their internal struggle is real. If substance use is involved, gently encourage them to get professional help for both.
Is there medication for high-functioning anxiety?
While medication is not always the first step, psychiatrists may prescribe anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, especially if anxiety symptoms are severe. Medication is typically most effective when combined with therapy like CBT.
How to spot high-functioning anxiety?
Look for patterns like excessive over-preparation, difficulty delegating, always being busy, visible physical tension (like clenched jaw), excessive worry about minor things (when comfortable sharing), people-pleasing, fear of making mistakes, or using alcohol/substances to wind down after work. Their outward success often masks these internal signs.
How to manage high anxiety levels?
Management strategies include regular exercise, mindfulness, deep breathing, setting boundaries, prioritizing sleep, healthy eating, challenging anxious thoughts, and engaging in hobbies. For persistent or high anxiety levels, seeking professional help through therapy (like CBT) and potentially medication is recommended. Flexible options like virtual treatment can make accessing help easier.
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