Have you ever met someone who seems to have it all together but later finds out they’re constantly battling anxious thoughts? That’s what high-functioning anxiety feels like. It’s when someone looks calm and confident on the outside but feels like their mind is spinning on the inside. As much as it’s hard to understand and bitter to live with, it is equally a truth that individuals battle.
Moreover, people with high-functioning anxiety often do well in school, at work, or in life. They might be super organized or always on top of things, but it comes at a cost—they’re tired, stressed, and worried more than expected. Let’s explore what high-functioning anxiety looks like and how it affects someone’s daily life.
What Does High-Functioning Anxiety Mean?
High-functioning anxiety isn’t a medical diagnosis. It’s more like a way to describe people who have anxiety but manage to keep their lives running smoothly—at least on the surface. You wouldn’t know they’re struggling because they hide it so well. It may seem unreal to know the facts surrounding high-functioning anxiety. However, it’s the most real thing in most of the cases around us.
Furthermore, just because someone is “functioning” doesn’t mean they’re okay. Inside, they might feel like they’re carrying a heavy backpack full of worries. Additionally, even if they manage to keep walking, the weight gets tiring after a while to an extent where it becomes difficult to manage and cope with.
What are the Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety?
1. Your Mind is Always Racing:
People with generalized anxiety disorder often feel like their mind is racing non-stop. People usually go over past chats, stressing about things that might never occur or getting caught up in little details. For instance, many might consider writing down emotions and feelings, venting it out sitting down to write an essay.
2. You’re a Perfectionist:
Being a perfectionist sounds good, right? It means one does things well. But when perfectionism comes from anxiety, it’s not so fun. It’s exhausting. Additionally, it may set high goals to the extent that achieving them might exhaust them. Furthermore, sometimes despite attaining those goals, it may feel insufficient or lacking deep down. In other words, it’s like acing a test, but rather than celebrating it, one feels like it could’ve been better. It feels like a constant battle.
3. You’re Afraid of Letting People Down:
Do you always say “yes” to people, even when busy or tired? That’s because you don’t want to disappoint anyone. Indeed, this is common for people with generalized anxiety disorder—they put others first, even if it means forgetting about their own needs. For example, your friend asks for help with homework, and even though you’re swamped with your assignments, you still say “yes.”
4. You Worry About Things That Don’t Happen:
Anxiety makes one think of the worst-case scenario all the time. Even when everything is fine, you might feel like something bad is just around the corner. For Instance, if a text has not been responded to, rather than thinking the other person could be busy. One might feel that they are being ghosted, or the other person is upset.
5. You Look Calm but Feel Nervous Inside:
On the outside, people with generalized anxiety disorder seem confident and relaxed. However, on the inside, they’re often nervous or on edge. Notably, they might fidget, bite their nails, or tap their foot without realizing it. For Example, one might speak clearly and smile during a presentation. On the contrary, the hands get sweat and the heart is racing the entire time.
6. You Love Your Routine:
Routines help people with generalized anxiety disorder feel in control. Therefore, if something changes, it can throw them off and make them feel unsettled. Imagine if you usually eat cereal for breakfast, but the box is empty one morning. It might make you feel stressed about the rest of your day.
7. You’re Always Tired:
Dealing with anxiety all the time is exhausting. Even if you get enough sleep, you might wake up feeling like you’ve run a marathon because your brain never really rested. For instance, many people with high-functioning anxiety struggle to fall asleep or isonomia. Additionally, their minds might race with worries, overthinking tasks, or replaying daily conversations, making it difficult to unwind.
How High-Functioning Anxiety Shows Up in Daily Life?
At School or Work:
People with generalized anxiety disorder are often the ones who go above and beyond. They’re the straight-A students, the reliable coworkers, or those who always volunteer to help. While this looks great outside, it can leave them drained and overworked.
Example: You finish a group project, but instead of feeling relieved, you immediately start worrying about what others thought of your work.
In Friendships:
Anxiety can make relationships tricky. Even though people with generalized anxiety disorder might seem outgoing, they often second-guess everything. Therefore, they might replay conversations or worry that their friends are upset with them.
Example: If a friend cancels plans, you might wonder, “Did I do something wrong?” even if they just had a busy day.
At Home:
When someone’s brain is always on high alert, it’s hard to relax, even at home. They might feel guilty about taking a break, thinking they should be doing something “productive” instead.
Example: You sit down to watch TV but think about everything you must do tomorrow instead of enjoying the show.
How Does It Feel to Live with High-Functioning Anxiety?
Heavy anxiety can make daily life feel like always wearing a heavy backpack. Even if you get everything done, it can be exhausting, and you might not always feel joyful or calm. Moreover, when you do something incredible, you might feel like it’s not enough or start to stress about what comes next. Therefore, It’s like scaling a mountain and finally reaching the peak, but then you find yourself looking at the next one waiting for you.
How Can You Handle High-Functioning Anxiety?
If this sounds like you, don’t worry—there are ways to feel better. Here are some tips:
1. Talk About It:
Sharing how you feel with someone you trust can be helpful. This could be a parent, teacher, or friend. For example, You might say, “I’ve been feeling nervous lately, even when things are going well.”
2. Take Breaks:
It’s okay to take time for yourself. Do something you enjoy, like drawing, reading, or walking. Taking a break doesn’t mean you’re lazy; you’re taking care of yourself.
3. Learn to Say “No”:
It’s important to set boundaries. If you’re already busy, saying “no” to extra work or plans is okay. You can’t pour from an empty cup!
4. Try Relaxation Techniques:
Deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help calm your mind. Even just a few minutes of breathing slowly can make a big difference.
5. Ask for Help:
Sometimes, it’s helpful to talk to a counselor or therapist. They can teach you ways to manage anxiety and feel more in control.
6. Medication:
For some people, medication can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants prescribed by a doctor can make it easier to manage overwhelming feelings. If you’re considering this option, discussing it with the Best healthcare professional is important.
Remember, You’re Not Alone
High-functioning anxiety can be overwhelming, yet it’s a common experience for many, even if they choose not to discuss it.
Fantastic news! You can learn to manage it with support and a focus on self-care.
Taking breaks, setting boundaries, and asking for help when necessary is completely acceptable. It’s perfectly fine not to have everything figured out perfectly. Life is not about perfection; it’s about finding balance and joy. Take a deep breath and remember—you’ve got this!
Seeking Help is a Strength
Remember that reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a brave move towards feeling better. Dealing with high-functioning anxiety can be tough, but with the right help and support, you can manage it and enjoy a happy life. Don’t hesitate to contact Eximious, a premier mental health clinic in Allen and Sherman – Texas. You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in prioritizing your mental health!
