What Does It Mean to Have High Functioning Anxiety?

“High functioning” is a phrase we’ve seen more of in recent years, particularly tied to anxiety and depression. High functioning anxiety isn’t actually a clinical anxiety disorder, so you may not find as much research on it. But that doesn’t mean it’s not something people are actually experiencing.

Mostly, we use it as a term to describe anyone who functions reasonably well in various areas of life despite having anxiety. Many often see this as a “type A” personality. For these people, anxiety is more a driver than a fear that holds them back. Their success stems from their anxiety pushing them to surpass every expectation—failure is not an option. In turn, this actually creates more internalized anxiety.

While there are some positive aspects to high functioning anxiety, like being detail-oriented, punctual, and passionate, it doesn’t mean there is nothing wrong. Because with those positive aspects come some negatives, including overthinking, insomnia, fatigue, inability to relax, trouble setting boundaries, and more.

Let’s dive deeper into what it means for someone to have “high functioning anxiety”.

What Is High Functioning Anxiety?

In short, high functioning anxiety is when someone experiences symptoms of anxiety on the inside, but otherwise outwardly appears well-accomplished, put together, and confident. It may seem like they don’t worry or aren’t stressed. On the outside, you wouldn’t be able to tell that they’re struggling day-to-day with anxiety. What’s actually happening is that these people are just really good at masking it.

These folk are often “people pleasers” who are inwardly exhausted due to a lack of boundaries and realistic goal setting. They may show up to work polished, motivated, and passionate. However, they secretly crave reassurance and tend to compare themselves to others.

Usually, the symptoms of high functioning anxiety are close to those of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In addition to experiencing excessive worry on most days for at least 6 months, these can include:

• Restlessness

• Trouble concentrating

• Fatigue

• Irritability

• Muscle tension

• Sleep issues

Although they appear fine, people with high functioning anxiety often report feeling constantly on edge and tense. They may experience headaches or jaw aches from clenching their teeth. They also tend to hunch their shoulders and may be prone to irritability.

Another common symptom reported is trouble falling or staying asleep, which can play into irritability. While it may seem like a positive thing to be able to handle day-to-day tasks despite having anxiety, it doesn’t mean that the anxiety should go ignored. This mindset is why many don’t seek help or end up suffering in silence.

What Causes High Functioning Anxiety?

The answer is different for everyone. Some causes can include:

• Family history

• Negative or stressful life events

• Physical health conditions

• Substance or alcohol abuse

• Shy or nervous traits from childhood

One common underlying theme in people with high functioning anxiety is that they may have achieved success in a small amount of time, setting a very high bar they feel they must strive to keep up with at all times. Other ways this may manifest is in young children who are considered “gifted” in school growing up, leading to burnout by the time they reach college age and adulthood.

How to Treat High Functioning Anxiety

Much like other anxiety disorders, high functioning anxiety can be treated with therapy, medication, or combination of both.

People with high functioning anxiety can benefit greatly from speaking to a therapist. In therapy, you get a better understanding of your anxiety—how it works, your triggers, the signs, and how to manage it. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common and effective way to go about this, since it helps rewrite negative thinking patterns into something more positive.

If you’re someone struggling with high functioning anxiety, reach out today!