High-Functioning Anxiety: Understanding Signs and Causes

Anxiety is the most common mental health issue in the world, but it does not necessarily impact everyone in the same way. Some people struggle so much with anxious thoughts that they find it hard to get through the day or perform the most basic tasks.

Others have what is known as high-functioning anxiety. While the fears and worries are still there and might be just as intense, those with high-functioning anxiety are typically able to maintain some kind of daily routine and sense of normalcy — at least on the surface.

So what exactly is high-functioning anxiety? Here is an in-depth look, including potential causes and signs you should look for.

What Causes High-Functioning Anxiety?

High-functioning anxiety usually does not stem from a single underlying cause. Rather, there are several factors that can come into play that might make someone more likely to experience it.

Genetics

It starts with a genetic predisposition. If members of your family have dealt with anxiety in the past, you might be more at risk of developing it yourself. However, environmental factors typically trigger anxiety and how you respond to it. Everything from stressful life events to societal pressures can cause anxious thoughts.

Perfectionism

It is not uncommon for people who consider themselves to be perfectionists to deal with high-functioning anxiety. You might look like you have everything together on the surface, but your perfectionism is driven by fear and worry.

Childhood

Unfortunately, high-functioning anxiety can also be triggered by childhood experiences. Maybe you had parents or caregivers with high expectations — or unrealistic ones. Feeling the constant pressure to perform or do well can cause any child to be anxious, and it’s not uncommon to carry those worries with you into adulthood, even though you maintain those high expectations for yourself.

What Are the Signs?

• High-functioning anxiety can impact you emotionally and behaviorally. On the inside, you might struggle with symptoms like excessive worry, a fear of failure, and irritability. It might seem like you are constantly on edge or you have a hard time relaxing.

• Externally, high-functioning anxiety can make it difficult to concentrate. You might overthink everything, leading to procrastination and avoidance. At the same time, you might have a difficult time saying “no” and end up taking on more than you can handle.

• Again, it is not uncommon for people with high-functioning anxiety to be perfectionists. However, they also tend to struggle with “imposter syndrome.” If you worry you are not good enough or somehow fooling everyone into thinking more highly of you than you actually are, it can lead to even more anxious thoughts.

• It is often difficult for people with high-functioning anxiety to express their emotions. They are often worried about letting people down, or they need constant reassurance. So, talking about struggles can be difficult.

What Can You Do?

If the signs of high-functioning anxiety sound familiar, the best thing you can do for yourself is to reach out for help. Even if you can get through your days and check off your tasks, you should not have to live with underlying fear and worry for the rest of your life. It will take a toll on your physical and mental health, affect your relationships, and have a negative effect on your quality of life.

Anxiety therapy can give you a better idea of where your anxiety stems from. Learning the root of your high-functioning anxiety will give you a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, so you can start taking positive steps forward. You will learn how to better manage your symptoms and take control of your anxious thoughts.

If you’re ready to take that step and live a life without anxiety at the wheel, contact us for a consultation.