Anxiety is considered to be one of the common mental health issues faced by at least 1 out of 5 people. It can make the affected individual fussy and irritated about everything and every person around.

High-functioning anxiety is a similar branch of the issue, making one feel disturbed and disoriented. Though such people may look calm and composed to others, internally, they aren't able to focus on a single spot and always feel uncomfortable due to overthinking about every activity.

Symptoms of High-Functioning Anxiety

Extreme Disturbance - An individual casually worrying about things is a normal sight, but an individual extremely disturbed about things and thinking constantly about them is one of the symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.

The individual cannot focus on one thing simultaneously and always wishes to multi-task. The symptom also involves the affected individual feeling disturbed and constantly thinking about one incident.

Constant Urge to Achieve Perfection - An individual suffering from extreme anxiety constantly works beyond their physical capacity to achieve perfection. Though it may make the individual feel tired and restless, the affected person will keep working constantly to achieve the desired results per the planned goals.
Feeling Unsatisfied - People suffering from extreme anxiety never feel satiated. They are constantly urged to get more, for which they work continually. Even after accomplishing the planned goals, the individual's urge to get more doesn't stop. Hence, in case of such signs, one should get professional medical help to avoid ruining the situation.

Causes of High-Functioning Anxiety

Family History- The family history of the disorder is one of the leading causes of the issue. An individual may feel high anxiety due to the issue running in the family. It increases the probability of getting affected by the issue easily compared to others. Hence, in case of symptoms of extreme anxiety, one should get professional medical help to tap the root cause and get timely treatment.
Stressed Environment- An individual living in a stressful environment and always surrounded by negativity is more prone to get affected by a high-functioning anxiety disorder. Such people cannot focus on positive things and immediately absorb negative energy. It usually makes the affected feel low, leading to headaches, fatigue, and even weakness.
Alcohol Abuse- High alcohol intake or alcohol abuse is also one of the causes of high anxiety. People consuming high amounts of alcohol are more prone to get affected by such forms of anxiety. Such people are unable to focus and concentrate on things. They may also suffer from different types of health issues, such as headaches, weakness, fatigue, and other kinds of kidney issues as well.

Treatment Options to Cure High-Functioning Anxiety

Stress Management- Stress is one of the significant issues of high-functioning anxiety; hence, efficient stress management techniques help one to deal with the issue. It can be done by practising yoga, listening to peaceful music, avoiding stressful environments and situations, and focusing on having a balanced diet.
Meditation- Though meditation may sound like a yogic practice and an exercise only done by people who perform yoga. However, meditation is not just a part of yoga; it is also helpful for staying calm and relaxed and keeping the mind recharged to work efficiently. The practice helps one to lower anxiety and bring stillness to a chaotic mind. Simply closing one's eyes, sitting in a comfortable position, and keeping one's mind free from thoughts or worries are some of the best methods for dealing with anxiety issues. Following the ritual for even 10 minutes a day and gradually increasing the time helps one improve concentration, focus, and decision-making.
Attending Support Groups- Disconnecting socially is the first symptom of a mental issue, but on the contrary, meeting people and sharing experiences with people having similar issues can help one deal with extreme anxiety. Attending support groups allows people to connect with others sailing in the same boat. Hence, it makes one feel supportive and eases the process of dealing with the situation with complete presence of mind. Attending support groups also helps one meet new people and get socially connected.

Conclusion

High-functioning anxiety is a situation when extreme signs of high anxiety are observed. The affected individual cannot focus and concentrate even on daily life routine chores. The problem can be worse for people with various other health issues. It can be handled by making positive changes in lifestyle along with a balanced diet and practising meditation to calm the mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is high-functioning anxiety?
A1. An individual with high-functioning anxiety disorder seems to behave normally but is overstressed, panicked, and disturbed mentally. Such a situation is termed high-functioning anxiety.

Q2. What are the signs of identifying high-functioning anxiety?
A2. Overstressing, the stress of being perfect in performing every task, dissatisfaction with the results always, and other similar activities are some of the signs of high-functioning anxiety.

Q3. Can people suffering from thyroid problems be affected by high-functioning anxiety?
A3. Studies reveal that people with hypothyroidism are twice as prone to get affected by high-functioning anxiety. Such people are observed to have signs of absent-mindedness, slow reactions, forgetting things, and other similar problems.

Q4. How can meditation help to lower high-functioning anxiety?
A4. Meditation can help one stay calm and composed. It also helps to improve concentration and focus, which are essential for professional success.

Q5. Which remedies can help to deal with high-functioning anxiety?
A5. Yoga, listening to peaceful music, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding stress are some of the steps that can help one to lower the signs of high anxiety.

Reference Links:

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/newsroom/features/what-is-high-functioning-anxiety-and-do-i-have-it
https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/what-is-high-functioning-anxiety/