High-Functioning Anxiety: A Guide for High Achievers in Salt Lake City, Utah
You are a high achiever, some might even call you an overachiever, but deep inside, you are struggling with so much anxiety. If you live in Salt Lake City or the surrounding areas of Utah, this experience may feel especially familiar.
You may have heard the term “high-functioning anxiety” and wonder what it means and if it applies to you. High-functioning anxiety is a more recent term used to describe a different way people can experience and live with anxiety, and often appear capable and successful on the outside while feeling overwhelmed internally.
Whether you’re personally navigating high-functioning anxiety or trying to understand better understand someone you care about, this guide is written for individuals in Salt Lake City, Utah, who want clarity, validation, and a better understanding of what they’re experiencing.
If you’re in Salt Lake City and recognizing yourself in these patterns, working with a therapist who understands high-functioning anxiety can be an important next step, especially through anxiety therapy in Salt Lake City.
What is high-functioning anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety is a term used to describe a type of anxiety where a person appears to be managing their life pretty well on the outside, despite experiencing significant anxiety on the inside. People with high-functioning anxiety tend to be overachievers, constantly pushing themselves to excel in different aspects of life, like work, school, relationships, or other responsibilities.
For many women living in Salt Lake City, this pressure to perform is often reinforced by work demands, family roles, and cultural expectations around responsibility and achievement.
On the surface, they might seem organized, successful, and always on top of things, which can make it hard for others to see the inner struggles they're facing. It's like they've mastered the art of "keeping it together" even when their minds are racing with worries and fears.
However, this constant pressure to perform and meet high standards can take a toll on their emotional well-being. They might be plagued by self-doubt, perfectionism, and an excessive need for approval from others. And because they feel like they have to maintain looking strong, they may not easily ask for help or talk about what they're going through.
It's essential to recognize high-functioning anxiety because, despite their apparent competence, these people need support and understanding, just like anyone else dealing with anxiety. Anxiety Therapy can be helpful in being able to manage anxiety symptoms better.
What is the Difference Between Generalized Anxiety and High-Functioning Anxiety?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a diagnosed anxiety disorder with symptoms such as excessive worry and fear about different aspects of their life. On the other hand, High-Functioning Anxiety is not an official diagnosis but describes those who appear to cope well on the outside while dealing with a lot of anxiety on the inside. GAD involves overwhelming worry and physical symptoms, while High-Functioning Anxiety may seem like overachievers battling self-doubt and seeking reassurance. There is so much more to this but essentially these two forms of anxiety just look different on the outside. Seeking anxiety treatment can be helpful for both conditions to manage anxiety effectively.
What triggers High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-Functioning Anxiety can be triggered by different things, and it's important to remember that everyone's triggers can be different. However, common triggers for this type of anxiety often include pressure to excel in multiple areas of life, whether it's at work, school, or personal relationships. The constant need to meet high standards and the fear of failure can contribute to anxiety. Perfectionism, the fear of disappointing others, and a deep-seated desire for approval can also fuel high-functioning anxiety. It's important to recognize these triggers to better understand and support those experiencing this form of anxiety.
What are the signs of high-functioning anxiety?
Symptoms of high-functioning anxiety will vary from person to person. They might be hard to see or want to change because they are often praised or seen as a positive thing. These are some of the common symptoms of high-functioning anxiety.
Overthinking and Worrying
People with high-functioning anxiety often find themselves stuck in a loop of overthinking and worrying. They might constantly anticipate worst-case scenarios or excessively analyze past events, making it hard for them to relax.
Perfectionism
Setting high standards for themselves, these people might feel a constant need to be perfect in everything they do. They might be their own harshest critics and find it challenging to accept anything less than flawless results.
People-pleasing
Due to a fear of disappointing others or being judged, those with high-functioning anxiety might struggle to say no. They take on more tasks and commitments than they can handle, leading to increased stress.
Struggling to relax or rest
People with high-functioning anxiety might have trouble relaxing or taking breaks. They feel guilty when not being productive, which keeps them in a perpetual state of busyness.
Physical Symptoms
While they might appear composed on the outside, inside, they can experience physical symptoms like tension, headaches, stomach issues, or difficulty sleeping due to anxiety.
Seeking Reassurance
Seeking reassurance and validation from others is common for those with high-functioning anxiety. They may doubt their decisions and rely on external validation to calm their anxieties.
Difficulty Delegating
They might find it challenging to delegate tasks to others, feeling like things won't get done correctly unless they handle them personally.
Social Anxiety
In social situations, they may worry excessively about how they are perceived by others, leading to self-consciousness and discomfort.
Procrastination:
Despite being high achievers, they may struggle with procrastination, especially when tasks trigger feelings of stress or self-doubt.
Inner Restlessness
A constant feeling of restlessness or being on edge is common, even when everything seems to be going well in their lives.
Do I Have High-Functioning Anxiety? A Question Many Women n Salt Lake City Ask
If you've been experiencing some of the signs listed above, such as constant worrying, perfectionism, difficulty saying no, seeking reassurance, or feeling restless, it's possible that you might be dealing with high-functioning anxiety. However, keep in mind that everyone's experiences are unique, and regardless, anxiety therapy in Salt Lake City can help.
If you're concerned about your anxiety levels and how they might be affecting your life, it could be really helpful to talk to an anxiety therapist. They can provide you with more insight and work with you to understand your feelings and experiences better.
Don't hesitate to reach out for support; seeking help is a positive step toward taking care of yourself. Whether it's through anxiety therapy or anxiety counseling, or talking to a trusted friend or family member, remember that you don't have to go through this alone.
How do I support someone with high-functioning anxiety?
Supporting someone with high-functioning anxiety can make a significant difference in their well-being. Here are some ways you can offer your support:
Be a Good Listener
Create a safe space for them to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Sometimes, just having someone to listen can be incredibly comforting.
Educate Yourself
Learn more about high-functioning anxiety to better understand what your loved one might be going through. This knowledge can help you empathize and offer appropriate support.
Respect Boundaries
While you want to help, it's crucial to respect their boundaries. It can be hard for someone with this anxiety to set boundaries as they are afraid of disappointing you. Understand that they might need some space or time alone at times.
Encourage Self-Care
Remind them to take breaks and practice self-care. Encouraging relaxation techniques, hobbies, or activities they enjoy can be beneficial. You can also be an example of how to prioritize your own well-being.
Avoid Judgment
Refrain from labeling them as "overreacting" or "too sensitive." Remember that anxiety is a valid and real struggle, and your support can make a world of difference while invalidating them will not change their anxiety symptoms and might even make them worse.
Ask what would be helpful
Find out what they would find helpful from you in order to feel less overwhelmed. This will vary from person to person so asking your loved one what they specifically will need is important.
Be Patient
High-functioning anxiety can be a complex experience. Be patient as they navigate their emotions and challenges.
Encourage Seeking Anxiety Therapy
If their anxiety significantly impacts their daily life, gently suggest seeking support from a mental health professional. Therapy can be incredibly beneficial.
Notice Progress
Acknowledge their accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing their efforts and the progress they’ve made so far can be validating.
Show Compassion
Try to put yourself in their shoes and show empathy and compassion for what they're going through. Knowing that someone understands can help them feel less alone.
How do you beat high-functioning anxiety?
The idea that you can “beat” high-functioning anxiety can actually cause some problems. Anxiety isn’t something you cure or get rid of but it’s something you can focus on managing better and feeling less of. Setting realistic expectations on how to cope more effectively with high-functioning anxiety is a better goal. Firstly, seeking support from an anxiety therapist can provide you with guidance and coping skills. Practicing self-care is crucial, making time for relaxation, hobbies, and activities that bring joy and peace even when it’s uncomfortable and unfamiliar at first. Learning to set healthy boundaries and saying no when necessary can help manage overwhelming commitments. Mindfulness and meditation techniques can assist in grounding yourself and reducing anxiety. Challenging perfectionism and embracing self-compassion allows you to be kinder to yourself. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can make a significant difference.
What is the root cause of high-functioning anxiety?
The root cause of high-functioning anxiety is not simple and is likely complicated as it often varies from person to person. However, certain common underlying factors contribute to this type of anxiety. High-functioning anxiety often arises from a combination of genetics, early life experiences, and learned ways of coping For some people, a family history of anxiety or stress can play a role, making them more vulnerable to developing this type of anxiety. Early experiences of pressure to perform or meet high expectations can also shape the way they approach challenges later in life. Additionally, perfectionism and a deep need for approval from others may stem from childhood experiences or other cultural influences. These factors, combined with ongoing stress and a strong desire to excel, can lead to high-functioning anxiety. Recognizing and addressing these underlying issues through anxiety therapy or anxiety counseling can be helpful in finding better ways to manage anxiety.
Anxiety Therapy for High-Functioning Anxiety in Salt Lake City, Utah
If you’re living in Salt Lake City, Utah, and high-functioning anxiety is starting to affect your mental health, anxiety therapy can offer meaningful support. Therapy provides a space where you don’t have to perform, overachieve, or hold everything together. Instead, you can slow down and explore what’s driving your anxiety beneath the surface.
Start working with an anxiety therapist in Salt Lake City, Utah
Take the first step towards healing and start anxiety therapy in Utah. Maple Canyon Therapy has an anxiety therapist specializing in treating high-functioning anxiety. Maple Canyon Therapy offers online anxiety therapy for adults across Utah, including clients in the Salt Lake City metro area.To begin anxiety counseling, follow the steps below:
Meet with a therapist for anxiety
Find relief from high-functioning anxiety
About the Author
Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker and the owner of Maple Canyon Therapy, providing online anxiety therapy to adults throughout Utah, including the Salt Lake City metro area. While her practice is based outside of Provo, Utah, Ashlee works with many clients living in Salt Lake City who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, and emotional burnout.
Ashlee holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in family life and human development from Southern Utah University, as well as a master’s degree in social work from Utah State University. Her education and clinical experience have shaped a deep understanding of anxiety and the ways it impacts high-functioning adults.
With a warm, grounded, and empathetic approach, Ashlee creates a safe therapeutic space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and patterns without judgment.