High-functioning anxiety is a complicated condition that may not be formally diagnosed, as it is not understood as an anxiety disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, it tells individuals who seem successful and in control of their lives but internally struggle with anxiety, stress, and obsessional thoughts. These individuals can manage their daily tasks well but often encounter persistent feelings of anxiety.
Regardless of their external achievements, people with high-functioning anxiety often over-function, working excessively and striving for perfection in all areas of life. This intense endeavor can lead to burnout, pushed personal relationships, and physical health problems due to chronic stress.
Symptoms to Diagnose High-Function Anxiety
High-functioning anxiety doesn’t have its own set of diagnostic criteria, but its symptoms are similar to those of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). These symptoms may include too much worry, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep problems. Significantly, signs like muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty sleeping may be more evident in individuals with high-functioning anxiety.
High-functioning anxiety should be differentiated from other anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorders, social anxiety disorder, and phobias, each of which has its distinct features and characteristics.
Symptoms of high-functioning anxiety contain both emotional and physical factors. Emotionally, individuals may encounter fears of criticism, self-criticism, a sense of impending doom, and excessive stress. Physically, symptoms can include sweating, lightheadedness, headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, muscle tension, rapid heart rate, sleep disturbances, and numbness or tingling in extremities. The intensity of these symptoms differs among individuals.
Root Causes of Severe Anxiety
The causes of high-functioning anxiety, like other anxiety disorders, are considered to include a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible participators include a family history of anxiety disorders, exposure to stressful life events, physical health issues (like thyroid problems), substance or alcohol misuse, and traits like shyness or nervousness from childhood.
High-functioning anxiety can occasionally lead to or coexist with depression. When anxiety is extracted into depression, people may struggle with symptoms like difficulty getting out of bed, disrupted sleep, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of life’s lack of worth. Managing both conditions concurrently is essential.
Treatments Suggested by Health Care Professionals
Managing high-functioning anxiety typically involves therapy, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy, which allows individuals to reframe their thoughts and behaviors related to anxiety. It facilitates self-acceptance and delivers tools for handling anxious feelings.
Other Coping strategies suggested by experts include:
- Avoiding comparisons with others
- Establishing a healthy life flow that balances activity and rest
- Building a support network
- Identifying core values
- Practicing mindfulness
- Setting healthy boundaries
- Learning to accept criticism constructively
- Setting a routine for exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Balanced diet
- Meditation and mindfulness practices
- Reducing caffeine intake
- Joining support groups
Treatment for high-functioning anxiety is similar to that for other anxiety disorders and may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective in helping individuals manage their anxiety. Medications such as antidepressants or other anti-anxiety drugs can also be prescribed.
Final Thoughts
In summary, while high-functioning anxiety is not a formal diagnosis, it presents a condition where individuals appear successful externally but fight with anxiety internally. Understanding its signs, causes, and available treatments can be crucial for those affected and their loved ones.
