Seemingly successful at everything you do, but worried, nervous, and panicking along the way?
Get the scoop on high-functioning anxiety.
Why the surge in popularity?
Rika Hayashi/Getty
So, what is high-functioning anxiety exactly?
Ahead, experts break down everything you better know about high-functioning anxiety, from signs and symptoms to treatment.
What Is High-Functioning Anxiety?
Thats because high-functioning anxiety is essentially a “blend of different anxiety-related conditions,” she explains.
failure, abandonment, rejection) that are fueling the fire, explains Cohen.
They then return to work on Monday completely depleted and strung out.
There’s a heap of positive reinforcement for this anxiety-fueled behavior that’s not necessarily healthy or sound.
(Kind of like burnout.)
“Behaviors associated with high-functioning anxiety get really, really reinforced by the world around you.”
Of course, thats just the shortlist of the possible symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.
For example, you’re able to also be guilty of constantly apologizing, says Cohen.
This is a tricky question to answer.
Because, as mentioned earlier, high-functioning anxiety isnt the easiest to spot or identify.
(
That said, both experts say there are some general symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.
“Our bodies are not separated like hospital floors,” says Cohen.
So…
Physical Symptoms of High-Functioning Anxiety:
Is There Treatment for High-Functioning Anxiety?
“CBT focuses on the thoughts that get it the way and push this perfectionism,” explains Cohen.
Sure, thats easier said than done, especially when youve gotten into the habit of being constantly available.
“Otherwise people expect instant responses from you,” which perpetuates this unhealthy cycle of high-functioning anxiety.
Practice Outside of Therapy
Therapy doesnt and shouldnt be confined to a weekly appointment.
(Both of which, reminder, are signs or symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.)
Another way to practice what both experts call “ongoing, active coping”?
Simplyfinding healthy routines that you enjoyand that “give you strength,” recommends Breland-Noble.
