Other names for this ailment include: Understanding the indications and symptoms of high-functioning anxiety is a crucial first step in the treatment process for individuals who suffer from it, as well as for those who are close to the one who is struggling with it. Here is the information that you need.

High-Functioning Anxiety

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which gives diagnostic criteria for mental disorders, does not identify high-functioning anxiety as a kind of anxiety disorder. Therefore, high-functioning anxiety cannot be diagnosed. Because of this, there isn't much information or study available on the topic. Instead, high-functioning anxiety is often used to describe a situation in which a person struggles with anxiety but can operate effectively. In most cases, a person who suffers from high-functioning anxiety may seem to be in control of their lives and thriving on the outside, but on the inside, they may struggle with worry, tension, or obsessive thoughts.

Symptoms of High-Functioning Anxiety

Research on high-functioning anxiety and how it affects individuals is restricted because it is not recognized as a diagnosable condition. Those with high-functioning anxiety may exhibit less evident signs and symptoms. Some experts believe that the signs and symptoms closely coincide with those of people with a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Included in the list of GAD symptoms are the following:

• Excessive concern or anxiousness on the majority of days for a minimum of six months
• Restlessness
• Having trouble focusing on things
• Having a low threshold for tiredness
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Sleep troubles

Some of these symptoms are more noticeable than others regarding high-functioning anxiety, but they are all there. High-functioning anxiety has positive and negative characteristics, so even though some of the positive qualities may appear to be great, this is not to discount the inner struggle that the person may be experiencing. For example, high-functioning anxiety can cause a person to be able to handle daily tasks well. It is possible that someone may not seek treatment or will suffer the effects of worry in quiet due to these very reasons.

High-Functioning Anxiety vs. Other Forms of Anxiety

There are several types of anxiety disorders, and each may manifest distinctively. According to the National Alliance for Mental Health, the following are some of the most frequent kinds of mental illness:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

As was mentioned before, one of the symptoms of GAD is a persistent concern over day-to-day activities. Anxiety is not associated with a particular occurrence; instead, it tends to be more persistent. Someone who suffers from GAD may have trouble completing chores, struggle to focus, and tend to get exhausted due to their anxiety.

Panic Disorders:

These diseases often manifest themselves in the form of panic attacks and the unexplained onset of intense fear in the blink of an eye. Some people mistakenly believe they are having a heart attack when experiencing panic attacks, which may include chest discomfort, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The symptoms of social anxiety disorder manifest themselves in public places. They include feelings of dread brought on by the prospect of having to participate in or contribute to conversations or debates.

Phobias:

Phobias are an anxiety illness because people who suffer from phobias often experience intense feelings of dread or unease. Phobias may be triggered by locations, things, or even occurrences. To prevent panic attacks, many people avoid any possible triggers. However, the methods they employ vary depending on the nature of the stimulus and the intensity of the response it produces.

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Anxiety And Depression At A High Functional Level

Disorders of anxiety and depression have a close connection to one another and may coexist with one another at the same time. The Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) research indicated that 53 percent of patients diagnosed with severe depression also suffered from considerable anxiety and were diagnosed with anxious depression as a result.

Treatments for High-Functioning Anxiety

Treatment options for high-functioning anxiety are comparable to those for other anxiety disorders and may include psychotherapy, prescription drugs, or a combination of these approaches. Some individuals find that talking therapy is a practical approach to managing their symptoms. Talking to a therapist or counselor about your anxiety may help you better understand the condition and instructions on how to manage its symptoms better. The term "cognitive behavioral therapy" (often abbreviated as "CBT") refers to a popular method of psychological treatment that modifies one's thinking processes to improve one's knowledge of their behavior and detect any distortions that may exist.

You can connect with licensed providers through online therapy platforms. These licensed providers include mental health professionals, psychologists, couples and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors. Online therapy platforms also connect you with licensed professional counselors. Please find our top recommendations for the most effective online treatment tailored to your individual requirements and interests.