8 Signs Of High-Functioning Anxiety

High-functioning anxiety is a level of anxiety which affects a person’s daily life and potentially those around them. 

This form of anxiety is not considered an anxiety disorder according to the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM), but it can still impact day-to-day life for those suffering from this form of anxiety.

A person with high-functioning anxiety may seem as if they have a good quality of life. For instance, they may seem successful and even take part in social activities or events.

However, a person with high-functioning anxiety can have inside struggles. Anxious thoughts, self-doubt, and feelings of stress may occur beneath the surface, unknowingly to others.

Symptoms of high-functioning anxiety may range in severity. That’s why it’s important to know these eight important signs.

1. You Experience Racing Thought Patterns

Overthinking and racing thoughts can persist throughout the day for those with high-functioning anxiety. With this form of anxiety, rumination is frequent.

For example, a person may continuously ask themselves “what if” questions or think about past events by having negative thoughts of “would have, could have, should have” scenarios.

2. You Strive For Perfectionism

Perfectionists may be more susceptible to high-functioning anxiety. Those seeking perfectionism may be detail-oriented and successful at their jobs as they strive to be the best.

Although burnout can be possible, even procrastination can drive productivity with this high-functioning anxiety.

3. You Have A Fear Of Failure

Having a fear of failure or criticism can be a sign that a person has high-functioning anxiety. Although a person may be high-achieving in their hobbies or work, the worry of being criticized bubbles beneath the surface.

4. Your Anxiety Causes Physical Symptoms

Those with high-functioning anxiety may suffer from physical health problems, including:

• muscle tension
• fast heart rate
• feeling on edge
• gastrointestinal issues such as stomach pain or diarrhea
• sweating
• headaches

5. You Neglect Self-Care

Although a person can function normally with anxiety, they may neglect certain aspects of their life such as self-care. Even though they may function normally, anxiety can lead to a lack of grooming, exercise, and healthy eating.

6. You Suffer From Nervous Habits

Nervous habits may accompany high-functioning anxiety. For instance, a person may tug at their hair, continuously shake their leg, or bite their nails frequently to stave off anxious thoughts.

7. You Experience Feelings Of Worry

Those with high-functioning anxiety may experience worry and thoughts of impending doom. Lifestyle changes, difficulties at work, or problems at home can lead to added stress.

This, in turn, may cause the person to experience more anxiety and worry underneath a veneer of wellbeing.

8. You Suffer From Sleep Disturbances

If you suffer from sleep disturbances such as restlessness, this may be a sign of anxiety. Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may continue to persist, leading to more symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.

What Causes High-Functioning Anxiety?

There can be several potential causes of high-functioning anxiety, including:

• family history of mental illness
• substance abuse
• experiencing a traumatic event
• physical health issues such as thyroid problems
• a challenging childhood

Types Of Anxiety Disorders

Although high-functioning anxiety isn’t classified as an anxiety disorder, there are other types of disorders that present with similar symptoms. Generalized anxiety disorder consists of persistent feelings of anxiety while those with panic disorder may experience recurring panic attacks.

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by the fear of social or or performance situations in which a person may be humiliated or scrutinized according to the National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH).

Treatment

To treat symptoms of anxiety and mental illness, your healthcare provider may prescribe certain medications such as antidepressants. Examples of antidepressants include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Additionally, therapy options allow you to speak with a mental health professional and learn coping strategies and mindfulness techniques to help treat symptoms you experience. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you connect your thoughts and behaviors and allows you to also take part in deep breathing exercises.

At Ark Behavioral Health, we focus on wellness techniques to assist those struggling with mental health conditions. If you or a family member require treatment, contact us today.