The Best Way To Explain High Functioning Anxiety Disorder To Your Boss
High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Millions of people struggle with high functioning anxiety. They may appear in control of their lives, or even be described as "overachievers" however they are actually struggling with severe anxiety and stress.
They don't stop thinking and they might not sleep well, and their health suffers due to chronic stress. It is essential to be aware of the need for help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are available.
Overachievers
High functioning anxiety is a state where people can be productive and meet deadlines, but are overwhelmed by a fearful energy they can't control. They may appear professional and have a busy social life but are afraid of falling short in their work or falling apart under the pressure from friends and family. They don't have time to take a break, and they constantly strive for perfection. This constant stress can be disguised by their accomplishments and successes but it can be a disaster for their physical and mental well-being.
Overachievers can also be unwilling to take care of their health issues due to the fear that it will slow them or hurt their career. panic anxiety disorder don't want to disappoint anyone, particularly those who have praised their hard work. It's nevertheless important to recognize that you suffer from anxiety disorders that are high-functioning and understand that it can be treated.
The use of medication and talk therapy can assist people in managing their symptoms. Therapists use techniques like cognitive restructuring and awareness building to shift irrational beliefs that feed anxiety and help clients learn to reduce their negative strategies for coping. People with high-functioning anxieties often take on criticism and react in a way that is overly emotional. A counselor can help them learn to manage their feelings, and to accept their failures.
Anxiety can lead to self-doubt digestion issues, sleep disturbances and a loss in motivation. It can also affect relationships and cause an isolation. If you're a high-achiever it's crucial to seek treatment for your anxiety disorder.
Overthinking
Overthinking is common among people with a high functioning anxiety disorder. They might ponder conversations even after the conversation has ended or fret about details that could get out of hand in a forthcoming situation. This can lead to constant stress and anxiety. It can also interfere with sleep and concentration. People with high functioning anxiety are also susceptible to hypochondria. This can cause them to misdiagnose health problems and be concerned that they may be suffering from a serious illness.
These individuals have high expectations for themselves and set extremely demanding goals. They are convinced that they'll never achieve perfection, despite the positive feedback. They are constantly working and pushing themselves to the limit, which can result in exhaustion and burnout.
People with high functioning anxiety who are not in therapy may improve their coping capabilities by managing their symptoms. For instance, they should try to get enough rest and eat a healthy diet. They should also avoid caffeine and other stimulants that can trigger anxiety symptoms. In addition, they can seek support from others who have anxiety by taking part in group therapy sessions.
Psychotherapy is the first step in treating high functioning anxiety. This can be done through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). These kinds of therapy can aid people in understanding how their thoughts and emotions are interconnected. They can show them how they can alter negative thinking patterns, and how to respond to stressful situations more efficiently. In addition, those who suffer from high functioning anxiety may benefit from taking medication. Antidepressants like selective serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs or SNRIs) and benzodiazepines can be used to treat acute symptoms.
Self-care is not always taken care of
Lack of self-care is a symptom of high functioning anxiety. This can come in many forms, ranging from not getting enough sleep to cutting out meals. It could also be a matter of avoiding places or people that trigger anxiety. It can be difficult for a person who has high functioning anxiety to recognize that they need help because they tend to think of their anxiety as positive characteristics like perfectionists or fear.
The most common sign that an individual has high functioning anxiety is a physical one like chronic headaches or digestive problems. This may be associated with an absence of enthusiasm for hobbies or work or the feeling of being uneasy on a regular basis. If these symptoms persist it is important to talk to a doctor.
Even if these symptoms are mild and not serious, they should be viewed as warning signs and a signal to seek treatment. For instance executives may discover that their constant worries are making it difficult for them to sleep and contributing to fatigue and a weakening of the immune system. A student with high functioning levels of anxiety might find that they lose too much sleep, which can negatively impact their grades.
You should also establish healthy boundaries for people who demand a lot of your time. This could include family members, friends, and managers who would like you to take on more than you can handle. Limiting stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, which can cause anxiety symptoms and can cause anxiety, can aid.
Fortunately, people with high functioning anxiety can be helped the same way that people with anxiety disorders are, through psychotherapy (talk therapy), lifestyle changes and, depending on the severity of their symptoms, medication. This can include practicing mindfulness, learning to practice self-compassion and staying away from or challenging negative self-talk.
Social isolation
Many people with high functioning anxiety are skilled at hiding their internal struggles. They continue to fulfill their obligations and appear to be successful on the outside, but they may be struggling to manage the anxiety they feel. If they are not treated the anxiety can become chronic and hinder the daily activities. To combat these symptoms, it's crucial to seek out social support and practice stress management techniques. These include journaling, staying away from caffeine, and joining an online support group to discuss your concerns with others.
Anxiety is a difficult thing to manage. It can cause many physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach issues and fatigue. Additionally, it can affect how you sleep. People with high functioning levels of anxiety may have difficulty getting their attention off the task at hand. They may also feel a constant feeling of self-doubt, or worry that they've are letting others down.
Some high-functioning anxiety patients are reluctant to seek mental health care, believing that they are "not sick enough" or don't deserve the care. This is particularly true for those with ACEs, which can have lasting effects on mental health.
However, seeking treatment can be beneficial for those suffering from high functioning anxiety as it helps them understand their anxiety and learn how to manage it. Treatment options include talk therapy such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and medication, such as selective serotonin Reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT assists patients in recognizing and change their thinking patterns. It can teach them how to shift their thinking and discover solutions to the problems they face.
Relapse to alcohol and drugs
Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs is common among people who suffer from high functioning anxieties. They may also seek relief through diet changes or exercise, decaf coffee or other methods. These coping strategies don't provide a lasting solution. They could actually worsen anxiety symptoms and lead to substance abuse disorders. They can also cause other health issues, such as heart problems and gastrointestinal distress.
Although anxiety that is high-functioning may appear to be a positive characteristic, it can have serious consequences. Researchers have discovered that those who suffer from anxiety are at a greater chance of suffering from a cardiac event. They are more likely to have gastrointestinal problems and sleep issues. High-functioning anxiety may affect their performance at work. They may feel the need to perform better than other people and this can lead to anxiety and stress. This could lead to unhealthy habits like binge eating or drinking.
There is no single solution to high functioning anxiety. However, certain strategies can be helpful. Some include meditating, practicing mindfulness and a healthy diet. A journal can be beneficial in helping you spot patterns and triggers. In the end, it is important to make sure your stress levels are in check and seek professional therapy if needed. It can be difficult for people with high-functioning anxiety to ask for assistance since they don't want to be seen as weak or a failure. There are many mental resources, including online counseling that is available. Some of these services could even be free. They are a viable alternative to in-person treatment for those who are unable to pay for traditional treatments.