Overthinking, persistent worrying and a constant drive for perfection are all characteristics of someone who has anxiety. 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety but many of them barely show any symptoms. (1) This is because they have the unofficially diagnosed ‘high-functioning’ anxiety. People with high-functioning anxiety appear confident, they keep themselves busy and do their best to stay on top of things. However, internally they are battling with their thoughts. Their minds are racing, wondering what could go wrong and when. (2)
People can have anxiety and still be very successful in their jobs, relationships and personal lives. However, it can be very stressful to cope with daily anxiety. It causes people to worry about things that other people may find easy, such as going to a friends birthday or navigating through a crowded room. They perceive the world differently and it can be draining to manage.
20 Habits that Someone with High Functioning Anxiety can Relate to:
If you have high-functioning anxiety you may feel that you… (3, 4)
- Are a perfectionist, making sure even the smallest of details are perfect
- Can’t say “no” even when you really should
- Overthink every move you make and have to plan out your actions
- Worry a lot about what other people think about you
- Arrive an hour early to your appointments
- Are constantly asking people to repeat things like directions or instructions
- Apologize a lot for small things that you do
- Find it difficult to make eye contact
- Make lists to help organize all your thoughts
- Are always trying to keep your mind busy
- Feel like you are always being judged by others
- Constantly do things like twirling your hair or biting your nails
- Have trouble falling asleep
- Feel like you need to fidget or distract yourself when stressed
- Procrastinate on a task because it worries you
- Decline invites or cancels plans because you just don’t feel like going
- Are always thinking of the worst possible scenario
- Always replay past conversations in your mind
- Are constantly comparing yourself to others
- Are worried about the future
Feel Anxious? Try Meditating
Living with anxiety may need constant management, and practicing methods such as meditation can help quiet your mind and calm your body. The goal of meditation is to be aware of your thoughts, feelings, and state of your body without getting wrapped up in them. It is a moment to pause and center yourself to help you let go. For more information on meditation check out these simple meditative breathing exercises. (5)
Other methods such as aromatherapy and yoga also work great in relieving stress.
For More Information on Anxiety visit:
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