Stressful situations can make anyone anxious. That’s just part of the human condition. However, ongoing anxiety that doesn’t go away when the stressful situation ends can become challenging to control and interfere with daily activities.
There are about 6.8 million adults in the US diagnosed with generalized anxiety. The total number of people experiencing anxiety is much higher. High-functioning anxiety is a subset of generalized anxiety often undiagnosed. People with high-functioning anxiety often work hard to face their fears instead of avoiding the situations or interactions that would trigger them.
Key Takeaways
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- High-functioning anxiety is a subset of generalized anxiety disorder. Here are five methods people can use to manage high-functioning anxiety:
- Grow your support network
- Incorporate mindfulness
- Establish your values
- Develop personal boundaries
Defining High-Functioning Anxiety
High-functioning anxiety isn’t technically a diagnosis because it falls under the umbrella of generalized anxiety disorder. This is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety about a wide range of events that are often difficult to control. The term “high functioning” refers to people who exhibit symptoms but maintain a high level of functionality in their daily lives.
They can typically have successful careers and family lives but struggle internally with stress, self-doubt, and fear. Many also exhibit symptoms of depression. To their family and friends, they may appear in a high level of control.
Here are five methods people can use to manage their high-functioning anxiety.
Grow Your Support Network
You are not alone, and others have likely had similar experiences to you. A healthy support network of people to talk with can help ease your anxiety.
Incorporate Mindfulness
Focusing on the present moment can help pull you out of a cycle of anxious thoughts. The ability to concentrate on one thing at a time can increase your calm and peace.
Establish Your Values
People with high-functioning anxiety can become distracted by society-defined successes, or what other people want for them. Therapy can help you establish what’s important to you, outside of outside expectations.
Develop Personal Boundaries
Appropriate boundaries can improve your relationships. Learning how to say no to prevent overextending yourself, and when to say yes for opportunities that stretch your comfort zone, is critical.
Stop Mental Comparisons
People with anxiety often get lost in comparison to others and ruminate on the need to improve. They want to be more like someone else. This can accelerate anxious thoughts.
Book A Therapy Appointment For High-Functioning Anxiety
A therapist can give you the strategies and tools you need to better cope with your high-functioning anxiety. They can also help you to overcome fears and improve your daily function so that you can better cope with your anxiety no matter where you fall on the spectrum.
Contact Dean Aman Mental Health Therapy today to book an appointment!