In today’s fast-paced world, many of us juggle numerous responsibilities, striving for success and fulfillment. However, for some individuals, this pursuit is accompanied by a silent struggle — high functioning anxiety. Often misunderstood or overlooked, high functioning anxiety is a condition where individuals experience persistent worry and fear, yet outwardly appear competent and capable.

What is High Functioning Anxiety?

High functioning anxiety is not a clinical diagnosis but rather a term used to describe individuals who manage to function well in their daily lives despite experiencing significant anxiety. These individuals may be successful, organized, and on top of things outwardly (their anxiety might even help them be successful!), yet internally they battle with overwhelming thoughts and fears. These people tend to white-knuckle their way through life rather than enjoy it.

Signs and Symptoms

• Excessive Worry: Constant worrying about various aspects of life, even when things seem to be going well, feeling as though they will lose what they have or they don’t deserve it in the first place.
• Perfectionism: Setting high standards for oneself and feeling immense pressure to meet them.
• Overthinking: Analyzing situations excessively and imagining worst-case scenarios.
• Physical Symptoms: Such as muscle tension, insomnia, and digestive issues, due to chronic stress.

Challenges Faced by Individuals with High Functioning Anxiety

Living with high functioning anxiety presents unique challenges that can impact various aspects of life:

• Work and Career: Struggling with perfectionism and fear of failure can lead to burnout and difficulty in delegating tasks.
• Relationships: Difficulty in expressing emotions or high levels of irritability can strain personal relationships.
• Self-Care: Neglecting self-care due to constant busyness or feeling guilty for taking time off.

Strategies for Managing High Functioning Anxiety

1. Recognize and Accept Your Anxiety

• Acknowledge your feelings without judgment and understand that it’s okay to seek help.

2. Develop Coping Mechanisms

• Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to manage stress levels.

3. Set Realistic Goals and Prioritize

• Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm and perfectionistic tendencies.

4. Seek Support

• Consider therapy to learn effective coping strategies and tools for managing anxiety.
• Medication management may also be beneficial in increasing serotonin and decreasing the chemical imbalances that can lead to anxiety

5. Take Care of Your Physical Health

• Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can significantly impact your mental well-being.

Conclusion

Living with high functioning anxiety can be challenging, but it’s essential to remember that you are not alone. By understanding the signs, acknowledging your feelings, and adopting healthy coping mechanisms, you can effectively manage anxiety and lead a fulfilling life. Seek support, prioritize self-care, and remember that your mental health matters.

Begin Anxiety Treatment in American Fork, UT

Remember, your journey with high functioning anxiety is unique, and there is strength in seeking help and improving your quality of life. You do not have to suffer through, it is possible to enjoy your life and experiences. You don’t need to struggle with the effects of high functioning anxiety alone. Our team of caring therapists would be happy to offer support from our American Fork, UT-based practice. Start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

1. Schedule a consultation.
2. Learn more about our caring therapists.
3. Start overcoming anxiety and improve your mental health!

Resources and Further Reading

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides information and support for individuals with anxiety disorders.
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): Offers resources, online support groups, and treatment options for anxiety disorders.

Other Services Offered with The Family Therapy Clinic

At The Family Therapy Clinic, we provide comprehensive mental health services designed to address your unique needs in addition to anxiety treatment. Whether your teenager requires support for anxiety or depression or you’re thinking about marriage counseling, our specialized therapists offer tailored therapy. Understanding life’s unpredictability, our experts also focus on adult anxiety, depression, post-divorce therapy, faith deconstruction, and  OCD therapy, ensuring a holistic approach to mental wellness across different life stages.