High-Functioning Anxiety — When You “Look Fine” But Feel Exhausted
By Yolanda Testani, RP | Clairville Therapy Group
You might look like you have it all together on the outside. You’re getting things done, managing your responsibilities, and keeping up with the demands of work, family, and life. But inside, you feel like you're running on empty, constantly worried, and overwhelmed.
This is the experience of high-functioning anxiety — when you’re outwardly successful and seem to be managing everything, but the internal pressure is taking a toll on your mental and physical health.
What is High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety is a form of anxiety where someone is able to maintain outward appearances of competence and stability, but internally they’re battling constant worry, fear, and self-doubt. It’s the feeling of being on edge, even when you appear calm and collected to others.
While this form of anxiety might not be as easily recognized as more traditional anxiety (where someone may appear visibly anxious or withdrawn), it can be just as exhausting and overwhelming.
Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety
If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing high-functioning anxiety, here are some common signs:
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Constant Worrying
You might find yourself constantly worrying about the future, about what others think of you, or about not being good enough. This can often be accompanied by perfectionism. -
Overachieving
People with high-functioning anxiety often feel the need to be perfect or the best at everything they do. You may push yourself beyond your limits to achieve success, even if it’s at the expense of your well-being. -
Difficulty Saying No
You might say yes to everything — even when you’re overwhelmed — because you fear letting people down or being judged negatively. -
Feeling Overwhelmed, Even When You’re in Control
On the outside, you appear to have everything under control, but on the inside, you feel like you're barely holding it together. The smallest things can make you feel like you’re about to crack. -
Physical Symptoms
Chronic stress and anxiety can manifest physically. You might experience headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, digestive issues, or trouble sleeping. -
Struggling with Relaxation
Even when you have downtime, it’s difficult to truly relax because your mind is racing with thoughts of everything you need to do or fix.
How to Cope with High-Functioning Anxiety
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Acknowledge Your Anxiety
The first step in managing high-functioning anxiety is recognizing that it exists. Acknowledge the pressure you’re putting on yourself and allow yourself to be imperfect. -
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness practices like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help you stay grounded and manage the constant flow of anxious thoughts. -
Set Realistic Expectations
Let go of the need to be perfect. Set realistic, achievable goals for yourself, and give yourself credit for the progress you’ve made. -
Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Recognize that you don’t have to constantly prove your worth by overachieving or being perfect. You are enough, just as you are. -
Talk to a Therapist
Therapy can help you manage high-functioning anxiety by teaching you coping strategies, addressing perfectionistic tendencies, and working through the underlying fears and worries that drive your anxiety.
The Takeaway
While high-functioning anxiety might seem like it’s manageable on the outside, it can be draining and take a toll on your mental and physical health. Recognizing the signs and learning how to manage anxiety can help you achieve a healthier balance, both internally and externally.
Therapy Can Help
If you’re struggling with high-functioning anxiety and feeling overwhelmed despite appearing fine, therapy can provide the support and tools you need to manage your anxiety more effectively. At Clairville Therapy Group, we work with individuals to help them address their internal struggles while still honoring their external achievements.
Ready to talk?
Book a free 15-minute consultation at www.clairvilletherapygroup.com.
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