We all experience anxiety at some point in our lives. It's a natural response to stressful life events and can even be beneficial in certain situations. However, for some individuals, anxiety becomes a constant companion, affecting their daily lives and overall well-being. One particular form of anxiety disorder that often goes unnoticed is high functioning anxiety. People with high functioning anxiety may appear successful, driven, and in control on the outside, but inside, they struggle with persistent worry and fear. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) offers effective strategies to manage high functioning anxiety and regain control over one's life. In this article, we'll explore what high functioning anxiety is and how professional help from a CBT therapist can be beneficial.
High functioning anxiety is a term used to describe individuals who experience anxiety but continue to perform well in their daily lives. Anxiety drives them forward. They may excel in their careers, maintain relationships, and fulfil responsibilities, but internally, they battle overwhelming anxiety. On the surface, these individuals appear highly accomplished and composed, often leading others to believe that they have it all together. However, the constant anxiety symptoms such as worry, self-doubt, and fear of failure can be exhausting and detrimental to their mental health.
If you suspect you may have high functioning anxiety, it's crucial to recognize its symptoms. Common signs include excessive worry, perfectionism, overthinking, difficulty relaxing, feeling restless, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches. It's important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone experiences the same ones.
Anxiety disorders can manifest in various ways, and high-functioning anxiety is just one way some people experience it. The causes of high-functioning anxiety can be multifaceted and may include:
Genetic and Environmental Factors:
Genetic predisposition may contribute to anxiety disorders. Family history of anxiety or mental health conditions can increase susceptibility and environmental factors like chronic stress or trauma may also play a role.
Neurotransmitter Imbalances:
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers regulate mood and emotions. Examples are serotonin and dopamine. These can influence anxiety.
Personality Traits and Cognitive Factors:
Personality traits such as perfectionism may increase the risk, while the presence of negative thought patterns and excessive worry about the future also contribute to anxiety.
Social and Academic Pressures:
High-achieving environments can contribute to anxiety. Fear of failure or not meeting expectations may drive over-functioning, where individuals push themselves to accomplish tasks. This can also lead to burnout.
Perfectionism and Over-Functioning:
The need for perfection and high standards may lead to anxiety and over-functioning, even in the presence of anxiety, is common. The need to achieve perfection can cause significant distress and a sense of never being good enough.
It's important to recognize that everyone's experience with anxiety is unique, and multiple factors can contribute to its development. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, it's advisable to seek help from a mental health professional for appropriate treatment.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a widely recognized and effective form of therapy for anxiety disorders, including high functioning anxiety. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety. CBT provides practical tools and techniques to change how we think and act, ultimately reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.
1. Identifying Thought Patterns: The first step in CBT is becoming aware of your thought patterns. Pay attention to the thoughts that trigger your anxiety and try to identify any irrational or distorted thinking. Are you catastrophizing or assuming the worst-case scenario? Challenging these thoughts and replacing them with more realistic and balanced ones can help alleviate anxiety.
2. Cognitive Restructuring: Once you've identified negative thought patterns, it's time to restructure them. Start by questioning the evidence supporting your anxious thoughts. Are there any alternative explanations or perspectives? Consider the potential outcomes realistically rather than catastrophizing. Gradually, you'll train your mind to think more rationally and reduce anxiety.
3. Setting Realistic Goals: High functioning anxiety often stems from the pressure to meet impossibly high standards. Learn to set realistic goals that are attainable and align with your values. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and celebrate your achievements along the way. This approach will help alleviate anxiety and foster a sense of accomplishment.
4. Practicing Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine can significantly reduce anxiety. Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment without judgment, allowing you to let go of worries about the future. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation are effective techniques to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
5. Developing Coping Strategies: Everyone copes with anxiety differently, so it's essential to find strategies that work best for you. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as exercising, spending time in nature, pursuing hobbies, or connecting with loved ones. Experiment with different coping strategies until you find what resonates with you and makes you feel calm and centred.
6. Seeking Support: Managing high functioning anxiety can feel overwhelming at times, so it's crucial to seek support when needed. Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide a listening ear and professional guidance. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don't have to face anxiety alone.
Managing high functioning anxiety is a journey that requires commitment and patience. CBT provides practical tools and strategies to help individuals take control of their anxiety and live fulfilling lives. By identifying negative thought patterns, challenging them, setting realistic goals, practicing mindfulness, developing coping strategies, and seeking support, individuals can gradually reduce their anxiety and regain a sense of well-being.
Remember, anxiety is treatable, and you don't have to let it define your life. Through psychotherapy you take the first step towards managing your anxiety and reclaim your peace of mind.
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