Everyday stress can be normal, but when it reaches a level that begins to interfere with your daily life and activities, you may experience high-functioning anxiety. This type of anxiety is often characterized by feelings of intense worry, fear, or panic with no apparent cause. Your symptoms of high-functioning anxiety can manifest in different ways and include physical and psychological effects. If left untreated, it can lead to long-term effects on your mental health.
Whether you're unsure if what you're feeling is anxiety or something else, it's essential to pay attention to your body and know some early signs and dangers that you may be experiencing with high-functioning anxiety.
Common Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety
If you're experiencing high-functioning anxiety, you may find that your worries and fears are on a continuous loop. You might also find yourself feeling exhausted, distracted, or overwhelmed due to these thoughts and feelings. You may have difficulty sleeping or concentrating, which can cause further anxiety or more significant problems with time management.
Other common signs of high-functioning anxiety include irritability and easily frustration, perfectionism, difficulty making decisions, avoiding social situations, a lack of boundaries, and difficulty expressing emotions. You may also feel the pressure to push yourself or take on too many tasks to prove that you're competent.
Unlike other forms of anxiety, it's possible to have high-functioning anxiety and still appear outwardly successful or productive. You may be able to manage your symptoms well enough that you don't exhibit extreme signs of stress at work or with friends and family. And while you may appear to have it all together, your anxiety can be wreaking havoc on your mental health and well-being. It's important to remember that high-functioning anxiety is treatable, but it's essential to seek professional help if you think you may be experiencing these symptoms.
Dangers of High-Functioning Anxiety
When it comes to high-functioning anxiety, there are some serious risks that come with letting these symptoms go untreated. The most important thing to remember is that long-term exposure to stress can majorly affect your physical and mental health. It's not uncommon for people with high-functioning anxiety to eventually experience burnout.
When left untreated, the worry or fear you experience can become so intense that it interferes with your work and personal life. You may be unable to concentrate or focus on tasks, which can lead to decreased productivity and lower job performance. Other risks of high-functioning anxiety can include relationship problems, substance abuse, and physical health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease. High-functioning anxiety can also be linked to depression, so it's essential to recognize the signs and get treatment as early as possible.
High-functioning anxiety can be a complicated and confusing experience, but it's important to remember that you don't have to suffer in silence. If you think you may be experiencing high-functioning anxiety, reach out to us for help. With the right treatment plan and support system in place, you can find relief from your symptoms and start living a more balanced and fulfilling life.
