The Daily Battle Against High-Functioning Anxiety by Caroline Graves Lowe
High-functioning anxiety, though not an official diagnosis, is a challenging experience that often goes unnoticed due to individuals' ability to maintain a facade of success and capability. Despite outward achievements, those grappling with high-functioning anxiety endure inner turmoil driven by overthinking, fear of judgment, and racing thoughts, leading to difficulties in relaxation and sleep. The term "high functioning" in mental health refers to an individual's ability to carry out day-to-day activities without significant impairment. Those with high-functioning anxiety often excel in various aspects of life, such as work, community involvement, and organization. On the surface, they may appear perfect, but beneath this facade, they grapple with a range of challenges, including a fear of inadequacy, difficulty saying no, and potential reliance on substances to alleviate distress.
Praised for their motivation, punctuality, and problem-solving skills, individuals with high-functioning anxiety perceive these positive traits as a trade-off for overwhelming negative aspects of anxiety. The distinction between high-functioning anxiety and regular anxiety lies in its motivating force, with individuals attempting to conceal their symptoms to maintain the illusion of control.
High-functioning anxiety brings persistent self-criticism, high stress levels, extreme self-doubt, and heightened sensitivity to criticism. The constant pursuit of perfection creates immense pressure, making it challenging to enjoy life without the constant fear of something going wrong.
Addressing high-functioning anxiety involves reconnecting with the present moment through mindfulness practices and grounding exercises. These techniques help interrupt anxious thoughts and bring individuals back to the current reality.
Therapeutic interventions, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), prove effective in treating high-functioning anxiety. CBT helps individuals reframe thoughts and develop new responses to distress, identifying and challenging ingrained thinking patterns. It offers a valuable toolkit for managing anxiety and regaining control over one's mental well-being. If high-functioning anxiety becomes overwhelming, seeking support from a trained therapist can pave the way to a more balanced and enjoyable life.