Effective High Functioning Anxiety Solutions for a Calmer Life

Oct 5

Feeling like you're always on edge, even when things seem fine on the outside? You're not alone. Many people, especially high-achievers, struggle with what's often called high-functioning anxiety. It's that constant hum of worry, the pressure to be perfect, and the fear of falling short, all while keeping everything together. It can be exhausting, right? This guide is all about understanding that internal struggle and finding practical high functioning anxiety solutions to help you find some peace.

Key Takeaways

High-functioning anxiety is a real internal struggle characterized by constant worry and perfectionism, often masked by outward success and composure.
Recognizing signs like excessive perfectionism, fear of failure, and a need for control is the first step toward managing this type of anxiety.
The impact of chronic stress from high-functioning anxiety can lead to physical symptoms and eventually burnout if not addressed.
Effective high functioning anxiety solutions involve a mix of cognitive strategies, lifestyle changes, and sometimes specialized therapies like EMDR.
Building resilience through good sleep, regular movement, balanced nutrition, and strong social connections is vital for managing anxiety.

Understanding High-Functioning Anxiety

The Invisible Struggle of Constant Worry

High-functioning anxiety is a bit of a paradox. On the outside, people experiencing it often appear to have it all together. They're the ones meeting deadlines, excelling in their careers, and maintaining seemingly stable relationships. They get things done. But beneath that composed exterior, there's a constant hum of worry, a persistent feeling that something isn't quite right, or that they're not doing enough. This internal battle is often invisible to others, making it a lonely experience. It's like running a marathon every day just to keep up appearances, and it's exhausting. This condition, while not a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5, is a very real experience for many, often sharing traits with generalized anxiety disorder but without the outward incapacitation. It's a state of being anxious without letting it stop you from functioning, though the internal cost can be high.

When Achievement Masks Internal Turmoil

It's easy to mistake high-functioning anxiety for simple ambition or a strong work ethic. People with this type of anxiety often use achievement as a way to cope or to prove their worth. They might set incredibly high standards for themselves, not because they enjoy the challenge, but because they fear the consequences of not meeting those standards. This can lead to a cycle where success is temporary relief, but the underlying fear of failure or criticism remains, driving them to achieve even more. This constant need to perform can mask significant internal turmoil, including self-doubt and a persistent fear of disappointing others. It's a delicate balance, and the pressure to maintain this facade can be immense, often leading to burnout. Understanding this dynamic is key to recognizing that outward success doesn't always equal inner peace. For many, this internal struggle is a significant part of their daily life.

Not a Formal Diagnosis, But a Real Experience

It's important to note that

Recognizing the Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety

It can be tough to spot high-functioning anxiety because, well, the person often appears to have it all together. On the outside, they're meeting deadlines, excelling at work, and keeping relationships humming. But inside? It's a different story. They're often battling a constant hum of worry and a deep-seated fear of not being good enough. This isn't about laziness or a lack of effort; it's about an internal struggle that doesn't always show itself.

Perfectionism Beyond High Standards

This isn't just about wanting to do a good job. For someone with high-functioning anxiety, perfectionism is more like a rigid rulebook. If a task isn't done to an impossibly high standard, it feels like a personal failure. This can mean spending way too much time on details that others would consider finished, or feeling a deep sense of unease over minor mistakes. It's like having a constant internal critic that's never satisfied. This drive can lead to overworking and a feeling that "good enough" is never actually good enough. It's a relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal, often measuring self-worth by achievements alone.

The Fear of Failure and Criticism

This fear can be a powerful motivator, but also a significant roadblock. The thought of failing or being criticized can be so intense that it leads to avoiding situations where performance might be judged. Even constructive feedback can feel like a personal attack, leading to a lot of rumination. This makes it hard to take risks or try new things, as the potential for negative judgment feels too high. It’s a constant tightrope walk, trying to perform perfectly to avoid any hint of disapproval.

An Unrelenting Need for Control

Anxiety often fuels a strong desire to control the environment and outcomes. This might look like creating endless to-do lists, meticulously planning every detail, or feeling disproportionately upset when plans change unexpectedly. Delegating tasks can be difficult because the belief is that no one else will do it quite right. This need for control can make collaboration tricky and lead to a lot of stress when things inevitably don't go exactly as planned. It’s an attempt to create order in a world that often feels unpredictable.

Acute Stress Response to Routine Challenges

What might seem like a minor hiccup to others can trigger a significant stress response. Being a few minutes late, a slight change in schedule, or even a routine meeting can cause disproportionate anxiety. This might show up as a racing heart, shallow breathing, or intense worry about everyday events. It’s like the body’s alarm system is set to high alert, reacting strongly to situations that don't necessarily warrant such a response. This constant state of heightened awareness is incredibly draining and can make daily life feel like a series of potential crises.

The Hidden Internal Experience

While the outside world might see someone who's got it all together, the internal experience of high-functioning anxiety is often a whole different story. It's like running a marathon every single day just to keep up appearances, and honestly, it's exhausting. You're constantly battling a storm of thoughts that just won't quit, making it hard to ever really relax or just be in the moment. This invisible effort takes a huge toll over time.

Constant Overthinking and Analysis

Your brain feels like it's always on, replaying conversations from hours ago, dissecting every word you said, and trying to predict every possible outcome for the future. It's not just thinking; it's a relentless cycle of analyzing and re-analyzing, often without reaching any real conclusion. This mental chatter can make it incredibly difficult to switch off, even when you're trying to unwind or enjoy a simple activity. It's like having a constant background hum of 'what ifs' and 'should haves' that you can't seem to tune out. You might find yourself creating elaborate mental maps of potential problems and their solutions, which can be helpful sometimes, but more often just fuels the anxiety.

Mental and Physical Exhaustion

This constant mental gymnastics isn't just tiring; it's physically draining too. Your body is often in a low-grade state of alert, which can lead to muscle tension, headaches, and a general feeling of being worn out, even if you haven't done much physically. It's the kind of exhaustion that sleep doesn't quite fix. You might feel like you're running on fumes, trying to maintain a high level of performance while your internal resources are depleted. This can manifest in various ways, like feeling irritable, having trouble concentrating, or even experiencing physical symptoms like stomachaches or a racing heart when things get particularly stressful. It's a heavy burden to carry day in and day out.

Difficulty Being Present Due to Future Worries

Because your mind is so often occupied with what might happen next, it's tough to truly be in the here and now. Even during pleasant moments, a part of your brain might be busy anticipating the next challenge or worrying about how you'll handle it. This can make it hard to connect fully with people, enjoy experiences, or simply appreciate the present. You might find yourself mentally checking out of conversations or activities because you're too busy planning, worrying, or rehearsing what you'll say or do later. It's like watching your life through a slightly foggy window, always looking ahead instead of experiencing what's right in front of you. This constant focus on the future can prevent you from finding peace in the present, making it hard to truly relax and recharge. You might even find yourself looking at a map of your neighborhood, trying to figure out the quickest route to your next appointment, rather than enjoying the scenery.

The Impact of Chronic Stress

When you're constantly running on high alert, your body and mind start to feel the strain. It's like pushing your car's engine past its redline for too long; eventually, something's going to break. For those with high-functioning anxiety, this isn't just a feeling – it has real, tangible consequences that can really wear you down.

Physical Manifestations of Anxiety

Your body isn't built to stay in a constant state of alarm. When stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are always on the go, they can mess with pretty much everything. You might notice:

Sleep gets all messed up; falling asleep or staying asleep becomes a real challenge.
Your stomach acts weird, or your appetite changes – sometimes you can't eat, sometimes you eat everything in sight.
Headaches and tight muscles become your constant companions.
Your immune system might take a hit, making you more prone to getting sick.
Even when you try to focus, your brain feels foggy, and concentrating is tough.
You might sweat more, or your hands might shake – those visible signs of anxiety can be embarrassing.
Over time, this constant stress can even increase your risk for heart problems.

The Risk of Burnout and Collapse

One of the biggest dangers of letting high-functioning anxiety go unchecked is burnout. You're pushing yourself way beyond what's sustainable, and eventually, you just can't keep it up. It's a gradual process, though. It usually starts with:

Overcommitment: You say yes to too much and set impossibly high standards for yourself.
Depletion: You feel increasingly tired, and no amount of rest seems to fix it.
Detachment: You start feeling disconnected from your work, your friends, and even things you used to enjoy.
Collapse: You hit a point where you simply can't maintain your usual pace or responsibilities anymore.

Recovering from burnout is a much longer and harder road than dealing with anxiety before it gets to that point. That's why catching it early and getting support is so important for your long-term health. If you're feeling this way, it might be time to look into options like EMDR Intensive Therapy.

How Stress Affects Daily Functioning

When your nervous system is constantly on edge, it's hard to just be. That persistent worry and the physical symptoms that come with it can really get in the way of your day-to-day life. You might find yourself:

Overthinking everything: Every little thing gets analyzed to death, which is exhausting.
Struggling to be present: Your mind is always jumping ahead to what might go wrong, so you miss out on what's happening right now.
Feeling mentally and physically drained: It takes so much energy just to keep up the appearance of being fine, let alone actually do things.

Effective High-Functioning Anxiety Solutions

Addressing high-functioning anxiety isn't about finding a single magic bullet. Instead, it's about building a toolkit of strategies that work for you. Think of it like this: you've been running on high alert for so long, your system needs a gentle, consistent recalibration. This means looking at things from multiple angles, not just trying to push through the discomfort.

The most effective approach is one that's tailored to your unique experiences and needs. What works wonders for one person might not be the best fit for another. That's why exploring different methods and being open to what resonates with you is so important. It’s about creating a sustainable path toward feeling calmer and more in control, rather than just managing the symptoms day-to-day. Finding the right combination of techniques can truly transform how you experience life, allowing you to achieve your goals without the constant internal struggle. It's about shifting from a place of constant pressure to one of genuine well-being, and that's entirely achievable with the right support and strategies. You can start by exploring some of these proven methods to manage the condition and improve your overall well-being [e5a4].

A Multifaceted Approach to Healing

Dealing with high-functioning anxiety often requires a blend of different strategies. It's not just about thinking differently; it's also about how you live your life and how you process past experiences. A well-rounded plan usually includes:

Cognitive Strategies: Learning to identify and challenge those persistent, often unhelpful, thought patterns that fuel anxiety.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Building a strong foundation through good sleep, regular movement, and mindful eating.
Mindfulness and Grounding: Developing skills to stay present and manage overwhelming feelings when they arise.
Processing Past Experiences: Sometimes, deeper healing involves addressing the root causes of anxiety, which might stem from past events.

Tailoring Treatment to Individual Needs

What makes a treatment plan truly effective is its ability to adapt to you. This means considering:

Your Specific Triggers: What situations or thoughts tend to set off your anxiety?
Your Internal Experience: How does the anxiety manifest for you – mentally, emotionally, physically?
Your Goals: What does a calmer, more fulfilling life look like for you?
Your Preferences: Are you more drawn to active strategies, reflective practices, or perhaps a combination?

By understanding these elements, you can work with a professional or explore resources that best align with your journey toward managing high-functioning anxiety. It's a process of discovery, and being patient with yourself is key.

Cognitive Strategies for Anxiety Management

When you're dealing with high-functioning anxiety, your thoughts can feel like a runaway train. It's easy to get caught up in endless loops of worry, what-ifs, and worst-case scenarios. But the good news is, you can learn to steer those thoughts in a more helpful direction. It takes practice, but these cognitive strategies can make a real difference in managing that internal chatter.

Challenging Persistent Worries

Sometimes, certain worries just stick around, no matter how much you try to shake them. A solid way to tackle these is by really digging into the evidence. Grab a notebook and write down the specific thought that's bothering you. Then, rate how much you believe it on a scale of 0 to 100%. Next, look for facts that support the worry and facts that go against it. Think about what you'd tell a friend if they shared the same concern – you'd probably offer a more balanced perspective, right? Try to create a new thought that takes all the evidence into account. You might be surprised how much your belief in the original worry shrinks when you look at it from all sides. This kind of mental flexibility is a skill, and like any skill, it gets better with practice. Working with a therapist can also help you fine-tune these techniques and find what works best for you. For more on managing anxiety, this resource outlines several key strategies for managing anxiety.

Transforming Unhelpful Thought Patterns

Our thoughts really do shape how we feel and act. If anxiety is a regular visitor, you've probably noticed how certain thinking habits can crank up the volume on those uncomfortable feelings. Cognitive reframing is a big part of therapy for a reason. It's all about spotting those unhelpful thought patterns and swapping them out for more realistic ones. This is especially helpful if you tend to appear totally together on the outside but your mind is a whirlwind of potential problems. Here's a look at how you can reframe common anxious thoughts:

Thinking Pattern Example	Reframed Thought
Catastrophizing: "If I make a mistake in this presentation, my career is over."	"A mistake would be uncomfortable but not catastrophic. Most people don't even notice small errors."
Black and white thinking: "If I'm not perfect, I'm a complete failure."	"I can do well without being perfect. Growth comes from learning through experience."
Mind reading: "Everyone at this party thinks I'm boring."	"I can't actually know what others are thinking. Some people might enjoy talking with me."
Fortune telling: "I'll definitely panic during the interview."	"I've handled difficult situations before. I've prepared and have coping strategies ready."

Scheduled Worry Time to Contain Anxious Thoughts

Another really effective cognitive tool is setting aside specific time for your worries. Instead of letting them pop up and hijack your day whenever they please, you make an appointment with them. Think of it as containing your worries to a specific window, rather than letting them spread out all over your schedule.

Here’s how to make it work:

Schedule it: Pick a 10-15 minute slot each day. Try to keep it consistent and avoid doing it right before bed.
Acknowledge and defer: When a worry pops up during the day, just notice it, maybe jot it down quickly, and tell yourself, "Not now, I'll think about this during my worry time."
Use your time: When your scheduled time arrives, use the full duration to write down all your concerns.
Sort and plan: For each worry, figure out if it's something you can actually do something about or if it's outside your control.
Action for solvable worries: If it's solvable, make a simple plan for what you'll do.
Acceptance for unsolvable worries: For those that aren't solvable, practice accepting them.
End decisively: When your timer goes off, close out your worry session. Put your list away and immediately switch to a different activity. You might find that worries that seemed huge earlier in the day don't feel as pressing when your worry time comes around. This really helps break the cycle of constant worrying and shows you that you have more control over your thoughts than you might think.

Lifestyle Foundations for Building Resilience

Even the most powerful anxiety management strategies need a solid foundation to truly flourish. Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in how you experience and manage anxiety symptoms. Think of it like building a house; you need a strong base before you can add the fancy decorations. Without it, the whole structure can become wobbly.

Prioritizing Sleep Quality

Getting enough sleep is really important for your mental health. When you're sleep-deprived, your ability to handle stress goes way down. Try to aim for 7 to 9 hours of good sleep each night. This means creating a consistent bedtime routine, making your bedroom a place where you don't use electronics before bed, and cutting out caffeine after lunch. When you feel rested, you're just better equipped to deal with whatever the day throws at you.

The Power of Regular Movement

Being physically active can really help reduce anxiety. It's like a natural mood booster because it releases endorphins, which are those feel-good chemicals. Plus, exercise helps burn off stress hormones and can even improve your sleep quality. You don't need to run a marathon or anything. The recommended 150 minutes of moderate activity per week can be broken down into something manageable, like a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week. It can make a noticeable difference in your anxiety symptoms.

Balanced Nutrition and Avoiding Substances

What you eat affects your brain and how it manages stress. Your brain needs certain nutrients to keep your mood stable. It's also a good idea to limit things that can make anxiety worse, like caffeine and alcohol. These can actually mimic or intensify anxiety symptoms, which is the last thing you want. Some people find that whole grains and foods rich in B vitamins help stabilize their mood. Keeping your blood sugar steady with regular, balanced meals can prevent those jittery feelings and mood crashes that can sometimes feel like anxiety itself. Also, consider cutting back on or avoiding recreational drugs, alcohol, and too much caffeine, as these can all make anxiety worse for many people. If you smoke, talking to your doctor about quitting is a good idea, as nicotine can increase anxiety.

The Role of Meaningful Connection

It might sound simple, but really, connecting with other people is a huge deal when you're dealing with anxiety. It's like a built-in buffer against all that worry. We're just wired to need each other, and having good relationships helps keep our whole system a bit more stable. Think about it – when you're feeling anxious, who do you usually reach out to? Probably someone you trust.

Support groups can be surprisingly helpful. It’s not just about talking; it’s about being with people who get it. They understand the internal struggle even when everything looks fine on the outside. Finding those relationships that actually make you feel better, not worse, is key. You know, the ones where you don't feel like you have to perform or pretend. It’s about finding your people, the ones who energize you instead of draining you.

Keeping a little journal or log of your anxiety can also be super useful. You can track what sets it off, how it feels in your body, what thoughts come up, and what actually helps you feel a bit calmer. It’s like creating your own personal map of what works for you. This kind of tracking can show you patterns you might not notice otherwise, helping you figure out what kind of connections and activities are truly beneficial for your well-being.

EMDR Intensive Therapy for Deeper Healing

When you're dealing with high-functioning anxiety, it often feels like you're running on fumes, even when everything on the outside looks fine. Traditional therapy, with its weekly check-ins, can sometimes feel too slow when you're used to getting things done. That's where EMDR Intensive Therapy comes in. It's a way to really dig into the root causes of your anxiety in a more concentrated way, aiming for faster, more lasting change.

Addressing Root Causes of Anxiety

High-functioning anxiety often isn't just about being a bit stressed; it can be linked to past experiences that your nervous system hasn't fully processed. Think of it like having an alarm system that's stuck on, constantly signaling danger even when you're safe. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, works by helping your brain reprocess these stuck memories. It's not about forgetting what happened, but about changing how your brain stores that information so it doesn't trigger that intense anxiety response anymore. This means we're not just managing symptoms; we're actually healing the underlying patterns that keep you feeling on edge.

Processing Unprocessed Memories

EMDR uses a structured approach, often involving bilateral stimulation (like eye movements, tapping, or sounds), to help your brain move through difficult memories. This process allows the emotional charge connected to those memories to lessen. For someone with high-functioning anxiety, this could mean addressing things like early experiences where perfection was demanded, or times when criticism felt overwhelming. By reprocessing these memories, the negative beliefs and physical sensations tied to them can start to shift. It's a way to help your brain understand that those past events are over and that you are safe now.

Transforming Stress and Trauma Patterns

The intensive format of EMDR therapy is designed to create momentum. Instead of waiting a week between sessions, you're in a focused environment for a longer period, allowing for deeper processing. This can lead to significant breakthroughs more quickly. The goal is to transform those ingrained stress and trauma patterns that contribute to your anxiety. This might look like feeling less reactive to triggers, having more control over your thoughts, and experiencing a greater sense of calm and self-trust. It’s about rewiring your nervous system so it can operate from a place of safety and regulation, rather than constant vigilance.

Why EMDR Is Particularly Effective

When you're dealing with high-functioning anxiety, it often feels like you're running on a treadmill, always moving but never quite getting anywhere. Traditional therapy can help, sure, but sometimes it feels like we're just managing the symptoms without really getting to the heart of the matter. That's where EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, really shines. It's a different kind of approach, one that gets to the root of why your nervous system is stuck in that constant state of alert.

Think about it: a lot of our anxiety can stem from past experiences, even ones that seem small at the time. Maybe it was a pattern of criticism, or feeling like you always had to perform perfectly to be accepted. These things can get lodged in our brains, making us hyper-vigilant. EMDR helps to unstick those memories, not by making you forget them, but by helping your brain process them in a way that they don't trigger that intense anxiety anymore. It's like helping your brain file things away properly so they don't keep popping up and causing distress.

Efficiency and Less Verbal Processing

One of the big wins with EMDR, especially for those of us who tend to overthink or intellectualize, is that it doesn't always require endless talking. While talking is part of it, the core of EMDR involves bilateral stimulation – think guided eye movements, sounds, or even tapping. This helps your brain process information differently. This means you can often see significant shifts in fewer sessions compared to traditional talk therapy. It respects your time and your tendency to process things internally, making it a really practical choice.

Body-Based Approach for Lasting Change

Anxiety isn't just in your head; it lives in your body too. You know, that tight chest, the racing heart, the constant tension? EMDR acknowledges this. It's a body-based therapy, meaning it helps release the physical tension and sensations that get stored along with distressing memories. By addressing both the mental and physical aspects, EMDR can lead to more profound and lasting changes. It's not just about changing your thoughts; it's about helping your whole system find a new sense of calm and safety.

Practical Results and Enhanced Self-Compassion

What's great about EMDR is that it's very results-oriented. The goal is tangible change – less anxiety, more peace, a greater ability to be present. As you work through these stuck memories and release the emotional charge, you often find yourself being kinder to yourself. That relentless inner critic starts to quiet down, and you can begin to trust yourself more. It’s about moving from that place of constant self-judgment to one of greater self-acceptance and understanding.

Making Grounding a Daily Habit

When anxiety hits, it can feel like your mind is a runaway train, hurtling into worst-case scenarios or replaying past mistakes. Grounding techniques are like hitting the emergency brake, pulling you back to the here and now where anxiety often loses its grip. Making these practices a regular part of your day, not just for emergencies, is where the real shift happens. It's about building a stronger connection to your present reality.

Grounding Techniques for Present Moment Focus

These methods are designed to anchor you when your thoughts start to drift into anxious territory. They work by engaging your senses, which naturally pulls your attention away from racing thoughts and back into your physical body and immediate surroundings. Think of it as a gentle, consistent reminder that you are safe and present, right here, right now.

The 5-4-3-2-1 Sensory Method

This is a really popular and effective way to ground yourself. It's simple, but it works by systematically engaging your five senses. It's a great tool to have in your back pocket, especially when you feel overwhelmed. You can do it anywhere, anytime.

Here's how it works:

5 things you can SEE: Look around and notice five distinct things. Try to pick out details you might usually overlook, like the texture of a wall, the color of a leaf, or a pattern on the floor.
4 things you can TOUCH: Focus on four things you can feel. This could be the fabric of your clothes, the surface of a table, the warmth of your hands, or even the air on your skin.
3 things you can HEAR: Tune into three sounds. Listen for distant noises, close sounds, or even the subtle hum of electronics.
2 things you can SMELL: Identify two scents in your environment. This might be the lingering aroma of coffee, a hint of perfume, or even just the neutral smell of the air.
1 thing you can TASTE: Notice one taste. This could be the lingering taste of your last meal, a sip of water, or even just the natural taste in your mouth.

This technique is a fantastic way to interrupt anxious thought loops and reconnect with your physical self. It's a practical tool for managing your state of mind, particularly when dealing with anxiety. You can find more information on the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 technique.

Weaving Mindfulness into Everyday Life

Beyond specific exercises, the goal is to cultivate a more mindful presence throughout your day. This means bringing a gentle, non-judgmental awareness to whatever you're doing. It's about noticing the small things, like the sensation of your feet on the ground as you walk, the taste of your food, or the rhythm of your breath.

Here are a few ways to make mindfulness a daily habit:

Set reminders: Use your phone to set gentle prompts throughout the day to pause and check in with yourself. Even a 30-second pause can make a difference.
Sensory moments: Intentionally engage your senses during routine activities. Really taste your morning coffee, feel the water in the shower, or notice the sounds around you during your commute.
Mindful transitions: Use the moments between activities – like walking from one room to another or waiting for a webpage to load – as opportunities to take a few deep breaths and notice your surroundings.

Making grounding a daily habit can really change your life. It's about staying present and connected to what's happening right now. Want to learn simple ways to do this every day? Visit our website to discover easy techniques that will help you feel more calm and focused. Start building your grounding practice today!

Moving Forward with Calm

So, we've talked a lot about what high-functioning anxiety looks like and how it can really wear you down, even when it seems like you've got everything together on the outside. It's tough, for sure, feeling that constant worry or pressure while still managing to get things done. But the good news is, you don't have to keep feeling this way. By understanding the signs and trying out some of the strategies we've covered, like managing your thoughts, taking care of your body with good sleep and movement, and maybe even looking into professional help like EMDR therapy, you can start to find a real sense of peace. It's about making small, consistent changes that add up, helping you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. You've got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is high-functioning anxiety?

High-functioning anxiety is when you feel a lot of worry and stress inside, but you can still do all your daily tasks like school or work. People with this kind of anxiety often seem okay on the outside, but they're dealing with a lot of inner turmoil, like worrying too much or trying too hard to be perfect.

Is high-functioning anxiety a real medical condition?

While it's not an official diagnosis in medical books like 'generalized anxiety disorder,' it's a very real experience that many people have. It's like a way anxiety shows up for people who are able to keep up with their responsibilities, even though they're stressed out.

What are some common signs of high-functioning anxiety?

Some signs include being a perfectionist (meaning you have to do everything perfectly), fearing failure or what others think, needing to control everything, and feeling really stressed about small, everyday things. You might also overthink a lot and feel tired all the time.

How does high-functioning anxiety affect your body?

When you're always stressed, your body can react physically. This can mean trouble sleeping, stomach problems, headaches, muscle tension, and even getting sick more often because your body is working too hard to handle the stress.

What's the biggest danger of not dealing with high-functioning anxiety?

The biggest risk is burnout, which is when you get so exhausted from constantly pushing yourself that you can't keep going anymore. It's like running a marathon every day without stopping – eventually, you'll collapse.

How can EMDR therapy help with high-functioning anxiety?

EMDR therapy can help by looking at the root causes of your anxiety, like past experiences that might have made you feel like you always have to be perfect or worry a lot. It helps your brain process these difficult memories so they don't trigger anxiety anymore.

What are some simple things I can do every day to feel calmer?

Simple things like getting enough sleep, moving your body regularly through exercise, eating healthy foods, and spending time with people you care about can make a big difference. Also, practicing mindfulness or grounding techniques, like the 5-4-3-2-1 method, can help you stay in the present moment.

How can I stop overthinking and worrying so much?

You can try challenging your worried thoughts by asking yourself if they are really true and what evidence you have. Another helpful technique is 'scheduled worry time,' where you set aside a specific time each day to think about your worries, so they don't bother you all day long.

Libby Murdoch