Many people know what anxiety is, but not everyone has a great grasp on what high functioning anxiety is and how it operates. Oftentimes it presents itself as a hidden problem because most of those suffering excel at aspects of their lives.
High functioning anxiety comes with day to day feelings of anxiousness that somehow manage to drive and motivate you. You’re probably a good planner and know how to meet those deadlines. You show up for your friends, family, co-workers, and even strangers. Unfortunately, the high functioning part can lead to a very quick burnout.
Knowing how to manage your symptoms is key to avoiding that burnout and reducing the likelihood that your anxiety will become a larger problem. Here are some ways to cope that are worth experimenting with.
Acknowledge Your Symptoms
The best place to start is with assessing your own understanding of your high functioning anxiety. You may already have an understanding, or you may know only the tip of the iceberg. How are your symptoms impacting you and your brain?
It can be helpful to know how you’re triggered and what your natural response is. As you learn to acknowledge and accept your anxiety, you can train yourself to cut down worrying. You have anxiety, it is what it is. Instead, focus that energy on something more productive.
Don’t Skip Out on Exercise
Anxiety can take a toll on you mentally for sure, but it also has a physical impact. High functioning anxiety keeps your brain on and running and it becomes hard to find time to exercise. During times of high stress, exercise could be just the trick to help ground yourself and reconnect with your body.
Since your brain is on, getting some movement in can also provide you with a pleasant distraction. You’re going to spend time in your day over-working at home or your job, why not spend some of that doing something to alleviate your symptoms?
Take a Breather
This is a two-parter. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and anxious, taking a break can be beneficial. Go for a walk, get outside, do some stretching…give yourself a quick breather from the stressors that are fueling you.
While doing that, focus on your breathing as well. Most people automatically assume a shallow and rapid breath pattern when anxiety flares up. Take some deep breaths allowing oxygen to circulate around your body. Feel your muscles relaxing with each breath and any tension slipping away.
Hold Your Own Intervention
Living with anxiety can feel like an endless cycle. This is where it is important to know your symptoms and what triggers them. When you start to spiral, you may notice yourself obsessing and checking things around you.
Pay attention to this behavior and intervene when necessary. Stop the checking back and forth, take a step away from the source of anxiety, and return once your anxiety has lessened.
Create a Support System
Having high functioning anxiety can start to feel like you’re alone on your own island. No one around you quite gets it, but you also don’t feel comfortable sharing too much.
Evaluate who in your circle is a safe and trusted resource for you to confide in. Don’t be afraid to share the details of what you’re experiencing and what you’re fearful of, especially on those really bad days. By leaning on your support system, you may find that someone else shares your struggles and may be feeling the same way.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Knowing when you need help and asking for that help will do you wonders. Sometimes your symptoms go farther than what you can control yourself. When that happens, turning to a professional is always an option. Use my contact information to setup a consultation today for anxiety therapy.