Welcome to True Living Counselling & Coaching, where we believe that mental wellness is essential for a fulfilling life. While anxiety can manifest in various ways, many individuals experience what’s known as High Functioning Anxiety—a condition where people manage to maintain their daily responsibilities and appear successful on the outside, all while struggling internally with anxiety. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help you navigate your experience.
What is High Functioning Anxiety? High Functioning Anxiety is characterized by individuals who may excel in their personal and professional lives but experience chronic worry, fear, or anxiety underneath the surface. These individuals often appear calm and collected, but they may feel overwhelmed by pressure, perfectionism, or the constant need to meet high expectations. While High Functioning Anxiety isn’t classified as a clinical disorder, it can still have significant effects on mental and physical well-being. Understanding it is the first step toward addressing its impact on your life.
Symptoms of High Functioning Anxiety People with High Functioning Anxiety may experience a variety of symptoms, including:
Perfectionism: Setting excessively high standards for oneself and feeling dissatisfied when these standards aren’t met.
Constant Worry: Persistent thoughts about potential failures, judgment, or the future.
Overthinking: Analyzing situations or decisions excessively, leading to mental exhaustion.
Restlessness: A sense of being “on edge” or unable to relax, even during downtime.
Physical Symptoms: Manifestations such as headaches, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, or fatigue without a clear medical cause.
Difficulty Saying No: Taking on more than one can handle, leading to burnout.
Avoidance of Risk: A tendency to avoid situations that might lead to failure or discomfort, despite appearing successful in other areas.
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself, know that you don’t have to struggle in silence.
The Impact of High Functioning Anxiety on Daily Life While individuals with High Functioning Anxiety can often maintain a façade of success, the internal struggles can lead to feelings of isolation, stress, and burnout. Relationships may suffer due to the constant need for approval or the difficulty in being vulnerable. Additionally, the pressure to appear “fine” can create a barrier to seeking help, further perpetuating the cycle of anxiety.
Causes and Risk Factors High Functioning Anxiety can arise from various factors, including:
Genetics: A family history of anxiety disorders may increase vulnerability.
Environment: Childhood experiences, including high expectations from parents or caregivers, can contribute.
Personality Traits: Traits such as high conscientiousness or sensitivity to criticism may predispose individuals to anxiety.
Stress: High-stress environments or significant life changes can trigger symptoms.
Understanding the underlying causes can be crucial in addressing and managing High Functioning Anxiety effectively.
Treatment Options: Finding Balance and Peace At True Living Counselling & Coaching, we offer tailored strategies to help you manage High Functioning Anxiety while maintaining your high standards and aspirations. Here’s how we can support you:
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): A highly effective way to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. We highly recommend this approach as we have experienced incredible results within 1-5 sessions. Go to our ART page for more information on this life changing therapy click here
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help identify and challenge negative thought patterns, providing tools to manage anxiety effectively.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices can promote relaxation and present-moment awareness, reducing overthinking and worry.
Stress Management Strategies: We’ll work together to develop personalized strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout, allowing for a healthier work-life balance.
Self-Compassion Practices: Learning to treat yourself with kindness and understanding can ease the pressure of perfectionism and foster resilience.
Goal Setting and Prioritization: Developing achievable goals and learning to prioritize tasks can help alleviate feelings of overwhelm and maintain your sense of accomplishment.
Why Choose True Living Counselling & Coaching? At True Living, we understand the unique challenges that come with High Functioning Anxiety. Our compassionate team of therapists is dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and enhance your overall well-being. We tailor our approach to fit your individual needs, helping you find balance and peace in your life.
Book a no fee 15min phone consultation today or get started and book an initial appointment.