Anxiety is something that affects almost everyone at some point. Most people’s image of anxiety is the person who struggles to leave their house, avoids social situations, or has difficulty managing basic daily tasks. But what about the person who seems to have everything under control while silently struggling inside? This is where high functioning anxiety comes into play. It is a form of anxiety that is often hidden beneath a calm, collected exterior. People who experience high functioning anxiety can appear successful, put-together, and confident, even when they are dealing with overwhelming stress and worry internally.
What Does High Functioning Anxiety Look Like?
The key characteristic of high functioning anxiety is that it often goes unnoticed because it does not interfere with day-to-day responsibilities. However, the internal struggle can be exhausting. Individuals with high functioning anxiety may experience racing thoughts, excessive worry, and the constant need to be perfect. They may be perfectionists, highly organized, or appear to be overachievers, but they are always worried about not doing enough or making a mistake. While they meet their deadlines, they may do so at the cost of their mental health.
Physical symptoms are also common. People with high functioning anxiety may deal with constant tension, headaches, or even digestive issues. Despite these struggles, the anxiety often remains hidden, as they are good at managing their appearance and responsibilities.
The Mask of Perfectionism
A major sign of high functioning anxiety is the drive for perfection. People with this form of anxiety tend to set unrealistic standards for themselves. They fear failure or making a mistake in front of others, so they go to great lengths to avoid that. This can lead to chronic stress and burnout. While they may appear to have everything together, the reality is that they often feel like they are barely holding it all together. They might constantly worry about what others think, which leads to overthinking and second-guessing decisions.
How Does High Functioning Anxiety Affect Relationships?
Since individuals with high functioning anxiety are focused on meeting expectations and avoiding failure, they may have difficulty saying no to others, even when they are overwhelmed. This can lead to feeling taken advantage of or unnoticed by others. They might also struggle with being vulnerable, preferring to appear strong and capable rather than admitting that they need help. Over time, this can lead to emotional exhaustion, resentment, and strained relationships, as others may not understand why they seem distant or overly focused on perfection.
Clinical Approaches for Managing High Functioning Anxiety
Therapists working with individuals who experience high functioning anxiety should focus on creating a safe space where they can openly discuss their fears and concerns. One approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and challenge their perfectionistic thoughts and beliefs. By examining their irrational fears, they can begin to adjust their standards and find more balanced ways of thinking.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques are also helpful in reducing anxiety. Learning how to pause and focus on the present moment can give individuals the opportunity to ground themselves when anxiety begins to escalate. Additionally, setting realistic expectations and learning to prioritize self-compassion can help reduce the pressure to always be perfect.
The Takeaway
High functioning anxiety may not always be visible, but it is just as real and valid as any other form of anxiety. If you or someone you know is dealing with it, know that it is okay to seek help. Working with a therapist can provide tools to manage stress and perfectionism, helping individuals create a healthier, more balanced life without compromising their well-being. I frequently work with clients that struggle with high functioning anxiety, so I may be the right therapist for you. Contact my office for more information about anxiety therapy and to schedule an appointment.