High-functioning anxiety is a subset of generalized anxiety disorder that often goes unnoticed or undiagnosed. It occurs when a person has anxiety symptoms, but rather than retreating from situations or interactions, they work hard to face their fears and are skilled at covering up symptoms.
There are many emotional and physical symptoms of high-functioning anxiety disorder, including:
- Emotional symptoms
- Fear of criticism or significant self-criticism
- Fear of looking inadequate or foolish to others
- Feeling on the edge or on the verge of losing control
- Feeling a sense of impending doom
- Experiencing significant stress
- Physical symptoms
- Excessive sweating
- Feeling off-balance or lightheaded
- Headaches or migraines
- Intestinal discomforts, such as diarrhea or ulcers
- Muscle tension
- Racing heart rate
- Tired, jelly-like legs
- Sleep disturbances
- Tingling or numbness in toes or fingers
The intensity of these symptoms varies depending on a person’s level of functioning. People with high-functioning anxiety can appear to be:
- Perfectionists
- Punctual, or always early
- Highly organized
- Overachievers
- Detail-oriented
- Proactive
However, they often internally struggle with:
- Overthinking/overanalyzing
- The fear of disappointing or angering others
- Self-doubt
- Obsessively double-checking details
- Racing thoughts
- The inability to relax
There are many treatments available for high-functioning anxiety, including:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT)
- Deep-breathing exercises
- Medication
To learn more about our outpatient mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center or to schedule a virtual appointment, please call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.