Understanding high-functioning anxiety: Is it really that bad?
By The Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune
How often do people decide to just live with pain until it becomes unbearable? Many of us hope it will simply go away, resorting to self-medication, and only seek help from a physician when the pain is too much to bear.
Psychological pain affects us similarly to physical pain. It wears us down, impacting our well-being and making everyday activities harder to manage. However, psychological pain doesn’t always lead us to seek help from a provider.
Anxiety is a normal physical and emotional reaction to stressful situations, manifesting as sweaty palms, a racing heartbeat, nervousness, or a knot in the stomach. Anxiety becomes disordered when this physical reaction is disproportionate to the situation and hinders our ability to function.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can present a wide range of symptoms, including:
•Dread or apprehension: Feeling a sense of impending doom or fear.
•Feeling tense or jumpy: Being on edge, easily startled, and unable to relax.
•Restlessness or irritability: Difficulty staying calm or becoming easily annoyed.
•Anticipating the worst: Constantly worrying about potential dangers or negative outcomes.
•Pounding or racing heart: Experiencing a rapid heartbeat or palpitations.
•Shortness of breath: Feeling like you can’t catch your breath or are suffocating.
•Sweating, tremors, and twitches: Physical manifestations of anxiety.
•Headaches, fatigue, and insomnia: Frequent headaches, feeling exhausted, and trouble sleeping.
•Upset stomach, frequent urination, or diarrhea: Digestive issues related to anxiety.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are various types of anxiety disorders, each with unique characteristics:
•Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life.
•Panic Disorder: Sudden and recurrent panic attacks that include intense fear and physical symptoms.
•Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations and being judged by others.
•Specific Phobias: Irrational fears of specific objects or situations.
•Separation Anxiety Disorder: Excessive fear or anxiety about being separated from loved ones.
The Challenge of Seeking Treatment
People with anxiety or any mental health condition often don’t get the treatment they need. Some don’t realize what they’re feeling isn’t normal, while others feel too embarrassed to seek help. Cultural stigma around mental health can also play a significant role, discouraging individuals from reaching out.
What is High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety refers to individuals who manage to get through each day, completing their tasks despite experiencing anxiety symptoms. They may appear outwardly successful and organized but internally struggle with constant worry and stress. This type of anxiety can be deceptive, as these individuals often don’t exhibit the traditional signs of distress, making it harder to recognize and address.
While it is possible to live with high-functioning anxiety, the more pertinent question is whether you have to live with it. The answer is no. Ignoring anxiety can take a toll on your overall well-being, increasing the risk of depression, low self-esteem, and other issues.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Anxiety
Chronic anxiety can lead to numerous health complications, including:
•Depression: Prolonged anxiety can trigger or exacerbate depressive symptoms.
•Cardiovascular issues: Increased risk of heart disease and hypertension.
•Immune system suppression: Higher susceptibility to illnesses due to chronic stress.
•Digestive problems: Persistent anxiety can lead to gastrointestinal disorders.
•Chronic pain: Increased muscle tension and headaches.
Managing Anxiety
There are many ways to ease anxiety, from self-help strategies to professional support. Anxiety disorders can be treated through:
•Psychotherapy: Engaging in therapy with a licensed professional, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
•Medication: Using prescribed medications, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs, to manage symptoms.
•Support Groups: Joining groups where individuals share experiences and strategies, providing a sense of community and understanding.
•Stress Management Techniques: Practicing methods such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise to reduce stress levels.
•Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to improve overall well-being.
Practical Steps for Self-Help
In addition to professional treatment, there are several practical steps you can take to manage anxiety on your own:
•Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the mind.
•Stay active: Regular physical exercise is known to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
•Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can have a positive impact on your mental health.
•Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both substances can increase anxiety levels.
•Establish a routine: Having a structured daily schedule can provide a sense of control and stability.
Seeking Help
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, remember that you don’t have to just live with it. Help is available. Seeking treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and explore the best treatment options for you.
For more information and tips on managing diabetes, consult your healthcare provider and stay tuned to Health Corner, IndoUs Tribune.
