Anxiety is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of individuals around the world.

While many people are familiar with the symptoms of anxiety, such as excessive worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating, there is a lesser-known subtype of anxiety called high functional anxiety.

What is High Functional Anxiety?

High functional anxiety is a complex disorder characterized by individuals who experience persistent anxiety symptoms while maintaining a high level of functionality in their everyday lives.

Unlike other anxiety disorders that may significantly impair a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, high functional anxiety often goes unnoticed due to the individual’s ability to function at a high level despite their anxiety.

The Subtle Signs of High Functional Anxiety

Individuals with high functional anxiety may not exhibit overt signs of anxiety, making it difficult for others to recognize their internal turmoil. However, there are subtle signs that may indicate the presence of high functional anxiety:.

1. Perfectionism:

Many individuals with high functional anxiety strive for perfection in all aspects of their lives. They may constantly seek approval and validation from others, fearing that any mistake or imperfection will lead to them being judged or criticized.

2. Overachievement:

Individuals with high functional anxiety often push themselves to excel in various areas of their lives, driven by their need to succeed and prove themselves.

They may be overachievers at work, school, or in personal endeavors to compensate for their inner anxiety and insecurities.

3. Excessive Planning and Preparing:

Those with high functional anxiety tend to spend an excessive amount of time planning and preparing for upcoming events or tasks, often going to great lengths to avoid any potential mishaps or failures.

This behavior stems from their fear of the unknown and a desire to have control over situations.

4. Chronic Self-Doubt:

Individuals with high functional anxiety constantly doubt their abilities and second-guess their decisions.

Despite their accomplishments, they may frequently experience imposter syndrome, feeling like a fraud and fearing they will be exposed as incompetent.

5. Difficulty Relaxing:

Persons with high functional anxiety struggle to relax and may find it challenging to unwind even during leisure time.

Their minds are often preoccupied with worry and overthinking, making it difficult to fully enjoy and engage in activities that should bring them relaxation.

6. Heightened Sensitivity to Criticism:

Individuals with high functional anxiety may be hypersensitive to criticism or perceived judgment from others. They may take even constructive feedback personally, interpreting it as a confirmation of their own self-doubts and anxieties.

7. Fear of Failure:

There is an underlying fear of failure that drives individuals with high functional anxiety.

They may avoid new challenges or opportunities out of fear of not meeting their own or others’ expectations, resulting in missed opportunities for personal or professional growth.

Seeking Support for High Functional Anxiety

Recognizing and acknowledging high functional anxiety is the first step towards seeking support and treatment. While individuals with high functional anxiety may appear to have it all together, their internal struggles are real and deserve attention.

Treatment Options for High Functional Anxiety

Several treatment options can be beneficial for individuals with high functional anxiety:.

1. Therapy:

Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals identify and challenge their anxious thoughts and behaviors. Therapists can provide tools and strategies to manage anxiety effectively.

2. Medication:

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of high functional anxiety. Anti-anxiety medications or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be beneficial when combined with therapy.

3. Lifestyle Changes:

Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits can also make a significant difference in managing high functional anxiety.

Regular exercise, proper sleep, stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga, and a balanced diet can all contribute to overall mental well-being.

4. Support Groups:

Joining a support group or seeking support from others who understand high functional anxiety can provide a sense of community and validation. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with like-minded individuals can be enormously helpful.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

High functional anxiety is a complex disorder that often goes unnoticed and undiagnosed due to the ability of individuals to maintain a high level of functioning.

It is crucial to raise awareness and understanding of this unique subtype of anxiety so that individuals can seek the support they need.