Five Killer Quora Answers To High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They may appear to be in a good mood, or even be called overachievers. But underneath, they struggle with anxiety and stress.
They can't stop thinking and they might not sleep well and their health is impacted because of stress. It's important to recognize that they need help, which is available in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.
Overachievers
People with high functioning anxiety are able work and meet deadlines, yet they are often overwhelmed by a tense energy they can't manage. They appear professional and have an active social life, but are terrified of failing at their job or slipping under the pressure of family and friends. They do anxiety disorders ever go away not allow themselves to rest and constantly strive to achieve their goals. This constant anxiety is often masked by successes and achievements but it can be detrimental to their mental and physical health.
Overachievers may also be reluctant to seek assistance for their health issues because they fear it could cause them to lose speed or damage their career. They don't want to disappoint anyone, particularly those who have praised their hard work. Nevertheless, it's important to acknowledge that you suffer from anxiety that is high-functioning and know that it is treatable.
Talk therapy and medications can aid in managing symptoms. Therapists employ techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety. They also teach clients how to reduce their negative coping mechanisms. People who suffer from high-functioning anxiety tend to react to criticism in a way that they accept it as a fact, and they need a therapist to teach them how to manage their feelings and accept failure.
Anxiety can cause self-doubt and can cause sleep disturbances, digestive problems and a lack of motivation. It can also cause a breakdown in relationships and create an sense of loneliness. If you're an athlete, it is important to get treatment for anxiety disorders.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common among those with a high functioning anxiety disorder. They might ponder conversations long after they have ended or obsess over issues that could go wrong during an future event. This can lead chronic stress and anxiety. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This could cause them to overdiagnose their health, and then worry they may have a serious health issue.
They have high expectations for themselves and set extremely demanding goals. They believe that they'll never achieve perfection, regardless of the positive feedback. They are constantly working and pushing themselves to the limit and can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
In addition to therapy, those who have anxiety that is high functioning can improve their coping abilities by taking steps to manage their symptoms. For instance, they should take the time to get adequate rest and eat healthy food. They should also avoid caffeine and other stimulants, as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Additionally they can seek help from others who have anxiety by attending group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step in treating anxiety that is high functioning. This includes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapy are able to aid people in understanding how their thoughts and feelings are interconnected. They can also teach them how to change negative thinking patterns and react to stressful situations in more effective ways. Additionally, people who suffer from anxiety disorders can benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines may be utilized to alleviate acute symptoms.
Insufficient self-care
A common symptom of high functioning anxiety is a lack of self-care. This can take many forms from not getting enough sleep to cutting out meals. It can also mean avoiding people or places that can trigger anxiety symptoms. It can be difficult for someone who has high functioning anxiety to realize that they need help since they may consider their anxiety as positive characteristics like perfectionism or fear.
The most common sign that an individual has anxiety with high functioning is physical like chronic headaches or digestive problems. This is followed by a decline in enthusiasm for hobbies, a decline in performance at work or a constant feeling of unease. If the symptoms persist it is crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.
Even if the symptoms appear moderate, it is crucial to treat them as warning signs. They should be a warning sign that you require medical attention. For instance, a manager might notice that constant anxiety hinders him from sleeping and leading to fatigue. A student with high functioning anxiety may discover that they are unable to get much sleep and this is impacting their grades.
You should also set limits for people who demand lots of your time. This could include family members, friends, and managers who demand you to do more than you are able to manage. It could also mean the restriction of stimulants like alcohol and caffeine, both of which can trigger anxiety-related symptoms.
People with high functioning anxiety can benefit from the same treatment that is available to people suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medications dependent on the severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and learning to avoid or challenge negative self-talk.
Social support is lacking
Many people with high functioning anxiety are adept in securing their inner struggles. They may continue to perform their day-to-day tasks and appear successful but they might not be able to cope with the anxiety. If left untreated, the anxiety may become chronic. They can interfere with everyday activities. It is crucial to take control of stress and seek social support in order to combat these symptoms. Journaling, avoiding coffee, and joining support groups to discuss your concerns are all good ways to combat these symptoms.
Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage and can trigger an array of physical symptoms including restlessness, muscle tension, digestive problems headaches, fatigue, and restlessness. In addition, it may affect your sleep. People who have high levels of anxiety have trouble in focusing and relaxing for the task at being done. They may also feel an unending feeling of self-doubt or fear that they're letting others down.
In some instances people with high-functioning anxiety struggle to recognize their need for treatment for mental health because they believe they aren't "sick enough" or are not worthy of the treatment. This is especially relevant for those suffering from ACEs that can have a an impact on mental health.
Treatment is beneficial to anxious people who have high functioning as it allows them to better understand their anxiety and discover ways to cope with it. Treatment options include talk therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT helps patients alter their thinking patterns and understand their distortions. It can also help patients to change their thinking and find solutions to the anxiety they feel about the future.
Relapse to alcohol and drugs
People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often use drugs and alcohol to help themselves cope. They may also get relief by dietary changes, exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. These strategies for coping do not provide a lasting solution. They can actually exacerbate their anxiety symptoms and lead to substance use disorders. They can also trigger other health issues, such as digestive distress and heart problems.
The presence of anxiety in high-functioning individuals may appear to be an advantage. However, it can also have serious consequences. According to researchers, those who suffer from anxiety are more likely to be at an increased risk of suffering heart attacks. They are more likely to have digestive problems and sleep issues. High-functioning anxiety may affect their performance at work. They may feel a need to perform better than others and this can lead to stress and tension. This could result in unhealthy habits such as binge-eating and drinking.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating anxiety with high functioning however, certain strategies could help. Meditation mindfulness, mindfulness and a healthy diet are some of the strategies that may help. Using a journal can also be beneficial to help you spot patterns and triggers. Finally, you should try to make sure your stress levels are in check and seek professional therapy if you need. It can be hard for someone suffering from high-functioning anxiety to seek help because they do not want to be perceived as weak or a failure. There are a variety of mental resources, including online counseling available. Some of these services are even free. These services can be an great alternative to traditional in-person therapies for those who cannot pay for them.