P
icture yourself standing at the edge of a cliff, the wind tousling your hair and the sun painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson. The view is breathtaking, but your stomach is in knots. You’re not afraid of heights; in fact, you’re an avid rock climber. It’s just that your brain, that mischievous little jester, has decided to stage a puppet show of anxiety right in the middle of this serene moment.
What is this feeling? It’s high-functioning anxiety — a realm where the outward appearance of success and composure masks a whirlwind of inner turmoil. It’s like wearing an invisible cape of worry, a constant companion that whispers doubts and insecurities into your ears.
What is high-functioning anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety, also known as high-achieving anxiety or functional anxiety, is a colloquial term used to describe individuals who experience significant anxiety symptoms but maintain a high level of performance in their personal and professional lives. They may appear calm, collected, and poised on the surface but underneath the veneer of composure lies a constant battle against anxious thoughts, fears, and worries.
What causes high-functioning anxiety?
The exact causes of high-functioning anxiety are still being unraveled by the curious minds of scientists. However, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role:
- Genetics: Studies have shown that anxiety disorders tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
- Environmental factors: Upbringing, life experiences, and stressful events can trigger or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
- Personality traits: Individuals with perfectionist tendencies, a strong need for control, or a fear of failure may be more susceptible to high-functioning anxiety.
Symptoms of high-functioning anxiety
High-functioning anxiety manifests in a variety of ways, often blending seamlessly into the individual’s personality and lifestyle. Here are some common symptoms:
- Persistent worry: Excessive and uncontrollable worry about everyday events, such as work, relationships, or finances.
- Rumination: The tendency to dwell on negative thoughts and replay past mistakes or worries.
- Perfectionism: An unrelenting pursuit of flawless outcomes, often leading to self-criticism and dissatisfaction.
- Procrastination: Avoiding tasks due to fear of failure or inadequacy.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep, or early morning awakenings.
- Physical symptoms: Muscle tension, headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue.
High functioning anxiety Vs other forms of anxiety
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about a variety of everyday events, such as work, relationships, or finances. Unlike HFA, GAD can significantly impair daily functioning. Individuals with GAD may struggle to maintain their jobs, relationships, and responsibilities due to their anxiety.
Panic disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear that are accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest pain. These panic attacks can be debilitating and can lead to avoidance of situations that trigger them.
How to diagnose high-functioning anxiety
There is no specific test for high-functioning anxiety as it is not a recognized clinical diagnosis. However, a mental health professional can assess for anxiety symptoms and determine if they meet the criteria for a more specific diagnosis, such as GAD.
Remedies for high-functioning anxiety
While there is no one-size-fits-all cure for high-functioning anxiety, a combination of therapies and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
- Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a particularly effective form of therapy for anxiety disorders. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to reduce anxiety symptoms. This is typically used in conjunction with therapy.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can all help reduce anxiety symptoms.
- Support groups: Joining a support group can provide a safe and supportive space to connect with others who understand the challenges of high-functioning anxiety.
Featured image: Blueastro/iStock
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