What Freud Can Teach Us About High Functioning Anxiety Disorder

High Functioning Anxiety Disorder

Millions of individuals struggle with anxiety disorders that are high-functioning. They may appear to have their lives together--or even be labelled as overachievers, but underneath, they struggle with severe stress and anxiety.

They don't stop thinking, they may not sleep well, and their health suffers due to chronic stress. It's crucial to recognize that they require help, and it's accessible in the form of cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.

Overachievers

People with high functioning anxiety are able to perform their jobs and meet deadlines, however they're often consumed by a nervous energy that they aren't able to control. They may appear professional and have an active social life, but are terrified of falling short in their work or falling apart under the pressure of family and friends. They don't have time to relax, and are always striving for perfection. The constant anxiety can be hidden by their successes and accomplishments but it can be devastating for their mental and physical health.

Overachievers are also unwilling to seek treatment for their condition due to the fear that it could slow them down or hinder their career. They don't wish to disappoint anyone, especially those who have praised their efforts. However,  generalized anxiety disorder  to recognize that you're suffering from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning and understand that it can be treated.

Therapy and medication can assist people in managing their symptoms. Therapists employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring and awareness building to alter the irrational beliefs that fuel anxiety and help clients learn to reduce their negative ways of coping. People with high-functioning anxiety often take on criticism and react in a way that is overly emotional. A counselor can help them learn to manage their emotions, and accept the failure.

Anxiety can lead to self-doubt and may cause sleep disturbances, digestive issues and a lack motivation. It can also destroy relationships and create an isolation. If you are an athlete it is essential to get treatment for anxiety disorders.

Overthinking

Overthinking is common in people with a high functioning anxiety disorder. They might ponder conversations even after the conversation has ended, or worry about things that could get out of hand in an upcoming event. This can lead to constant stress and anxiety. It can also affect sleep and concentration. People with high-functioning anxiety are also more prone to hypochondria. This could cause them to overdiagnose their health and worry they are suffering from a serious illness.

They set themselves high-level goals and have high expectations of themselves. They feel that they'll never achieve perfection, despite positive feedback. They are always working and pushing themselves to the limits which can lead to burning out and exhaustion.

People with high functioning anxiety who aren't in therapy can enhance their coping abilities by managing their symptoms. For instance, they should try to get enough sleep and adhere to a healthy diet. Reduce the intake of caffeine and other stimulants that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. In addition, they can seek support from people who are suffering from anxiety by taking part in group therapy sessions.

Psychotherapy is usually the first step to treat high functioning anxiety, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These types of therapy can help people understand the ways in which their thoughts and feelings are connected. They can also help them learn how to change negative thought patterns and react to stressful situations in more efficient ways. People who suffer from anxiety that is high functioning may benefit from medication. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines are used to treat acute symptoms.

Self-care is not always taken care of

A hallmark of high functioning anxiety is a lack of self-care. This can come in many forms, from not getting enough rest to not eating meals. It could also be about avoiding people or places that trigger anxiety. It can be difficult for someone with high functioning anxiety to realize that they require help, as they tend to consider their anxiety as positive characteristics such as perfectionists or fear.

The first indication of anxiety that is high functioning can be a physical symptom like chronic migraines or digestive issues. This is followed by a decline in enthusiasm for hobbies, a decrease in performance at work, or a constant sense of anxiety. If the symptoms persist it is crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.

Even if the symptoms appear mild, it is essential to consider them warning signs. They are a signal that you require medical treatment. For example executives may discover that their constant worry is preventing them from sleeping well and contributing to fatigue and a weakening of the immune system. A student who has high levels of anxiety could find that they lose too much sleep, which can negatively impact their grades.

It is also important to establish limits for people who take up lots of your time. This could include family members, managers, or friends who would like you to take on more than you are capable of handling. Limiting stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, both of which can trigger anxiety and can cause anxiety, can help.

People with high functioning anxiety may benefit from the same treatment that is available to those suffering from anxiety disorders. This includes psychotherapy (talk-therapy) and lifestyle changes, and medication according to the severity. This can include practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and learning to avoid or challenge negative self-talk.

Social isolation

Many individuals with high functioning anxiety are adept in securing their inner struggles. They continue to fulfill their obligations and appear to be successful on the outside, but may be struggling to manage the anxiety they feel. Untreated, these feelings may become chronic. They can affect everyday activities. It is essential to take control of stress and seek out social support to manage these symptoms. The practice of journaling, avoiding coffee and joining support groups to discuss your concerns are all good ways to combat these symptoms.

Anxiety is difficult to manage. It can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including restlessness, headaches, digestive problems and fatigue. It can also affect your sleep. People with high functioning anxiety usually have problems with relaxation and are unable to focusing on tasks at their disposal. They may also feel an unending feeling of self-doubt, or worry that they've have let others down.

Certain patients with high-functioning anxiety are not inclined to seek mental health services, believing that they are "not sick enough" or don't deserve the treatment. This is particularly relevant for people suffering from ACEs (adverse childhood experiences) that can have long-lasting effects on mental health.

Treatment can be beneficial to people with high functioning anxiety because it helps them understand their anxiety better and learn how they can manage it. Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medications like selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs), are all options to treat. CBT helps patients recognize and alter their thinking patterns. It can also teach patients to change their thinking and discover solutions to the anxiety they feel about the future.

Drugs and alcohol addiction

People who suffer from high functioning anxiety often utilize alcohol and/or drugs to help themselves cope. They may also try to seek relief through diet changes or exercise, decaf coffee, or other methods. These coping strategies are not a long-lasting solution. They can actually worsen their anxiety symptoms and can result in substance abuse disorders. Additionally, they could cause other health issues including heart issues and stomach distress.

High-functioning anxiety is often seen as an excellent trait. However, it can have grave consequences. According to research, people who experience anxiety are more likely to have a higher chance of having an attack on their heart. They also are more likely to suffer from digestive problems and may have trouble sleeping. High-functioning anxiety can also affect their performance at work. They may feel a desire to perform better than other people and this can lead to anxiety and stress. This can cause unhealthy behaviors such as drinking and eating too much.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to treat high functioning anxiety however, certain strategies could aid. Meditation, mindfulness and a healthy diet are some of the strategies that could aid. A journal can be helpful to spot patterns and triggers. It is also important to ensure that your stress levels are under control and seek out professional help should you require it. It can be difficult 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 lot of mental health resources available for online counseling. Some of these services are free. These services can be an excellent alternatives to traditional in-person therapies for those who are unable to afford them.