About High Functioning Anxiety
High functioning anxiety is when someone experiences symptoms of anxiety but is still able to function well in their daily lives, such as at work, school, and in relationships. While they may appear calm and confident to others, internally they may be overwhelmed with fear, worry, and negative self-talk.
It is important to note that high functioning anxiety is not officially recognized as an anxiety disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, individuals with high functioning anxiety may still experience significant distress and may hide their symptoms well. Some individuals may have subclinical anxiety, meaning they do not meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder but still experience anxiety symptoms. These symptoms can include mild hidden brief but recurrent feelings of anxiety.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of high functioning anxiety in order to effectively manage it. Effective treatment options are available for all types of anxiety.
The exact pathophysiologic causes of high functioning anxiety are not fully understood. However, there are several factors that can contribute to its development:
Non-modifiable risk factors cannot be changed or controlled. These include:
- Genetics: People with a family history of anxiety disorders or other mental health conditions are more likely to develop anxiety.
- Personality traits: Childhood traits of shyness or nervousness in new situations increase the risk of having an anxiety disorder.
Modifiable risk factors can be influenced or changed. These include:
- Exposure to stress or trauma: Experiencing stress or trauma at any point can trigger anxiety symptoms.
- Other health issues: Underlying physical health concerns, such as thyroid disorders or heart problems, can trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms.
- Drug or alcohol use: Misuse of drugs or alcohol can trigger anxiety, as well as withdrawal from these substances.
- Parenting style and childhood experiences: Self-critical parenting or a history of disappointment from oneself or others can contribute to the development of high functioning anxiety.
- Beliefs and learned behaviors: Believing that high levels of worry are functional for being prepared or in control can also contribute to high functioning anxiety.
It's important to note that these risk factors may interact with each other, and individual experiences may vary. If you suspect you have high functioning anxiety, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
High functioning anxiety is a condition that can present with a range of symptoms. Here are the most common early symptoms:
- Restlessness or inability to relax
- Racing heart
- Ruminative thoughts (repetitive and persistent thoughts, usually around negative experiences)
- Irritability
- Sleep issues
- Muscle tension
- Becoming easily fatigued
- Excessive worry or anxiety on most days for at least six months
- Negative self-talk
- Overthinking situations or racing thoughts
As the condition progresses or becomes more severe, additional symptoms may occur:
- Worry, fear, and anxiety
- Irritability and frustration
- Inability to relax
- Need for perfectionism
- Overachieving
- Fear of failure or judgment
- Desire to keep busy all the time
- Overthinking and overanalyzing
- Anticipatory anxiety (anxiety before events)
- Elevated heart rate and faster breathing
- Sleep problems
- Changes in appetite
- Digestive issues
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of them. If you suspect you may have high functioning anxiety, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
To diagnose high functioning anxiety, doctors typically follow these steps:
- Physical Exam: Doctors may conduct a physical check-up to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing anxiety symptoms.
- Medical History: A thorough medical history helps doctors understand the individual's symptoms and any potential triggers or contributing factors.
- Mental Health Assessment: If no underlying medical condition is found, a person may be referred to a mental health professional for further evaluation and diagnosis.
To determine the stage or severity of high functioning anxiety, additional examinations, tests, and procedures may include:
- Self-Assessment Questionnaires: These questionnaires help individuals assess their anxiety symptoms and provide valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Clinical Interviews: In-depth interviews with therapists or mental health professionals can help gather detailed information about the individual's experiences, emotions, and functioning.
- Cognitive Tests: These tests assess cognitive functioning in individuals with anxiety disorders. They may include tasks such as block design, digit span, matrix reasoning, and design fluency tests.
It's important to remember that high functioning anxiety is not a recognized disorder, but rather a way that anxiety may manifest in some individuals. Diagnosis and assessment should be done by qualified healthcare professionals.
The goals of treatment for high functioning anxiety are to reduce anxiety symptoms, improve overall well-being, and enhance daily functioning. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work towards achieving these goals:
- Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helps individuals manage their anxiety symptoms by identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. It also teaches techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to cope with anxiety.
- Medications: Several types of medications can be prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, including high functioning anxiety. These may include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs (such as benzodiazepines), or buspirone. Medications can help alleviate symptoms by balancing brain chemicals and reducing anxiety levels. However, finding the right medication and dosage may require some trial and error.
- Health Behavior Changes: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can also support the treatment of high functioning anxiety. These may include regular exercise, adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, stress management techniques (such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises), and minimizing substance use (including caffeine and alcohol).
- Complementary and Alternative Treatments: Some individuals find relief from anxiety symptoms through complementary approaches like yoga, focused attention and breathing exercises, meditation, or relaxation techniques. However, it's important to note that these treatments should be used in conjunction with evidence-based therapies.
By combining psychotherapy, medications if necessary, health behavior changes, and complementary approaches, individuals with high functioning anxiety can work towards achieving their treatment goals of reducing anxiety symptoms and improving overall well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific situation.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.