Understanding Women and High-Functioning Anxiety
Something that we, as women know is that women do the most. We have to perform in our careers; we often have full responsibility for managing everything at home, we manage our kids, we cook, we clean. Women do it all. Which is insane, nobody should have to do what we have to do every day. All the stress of balancing all those responsibilities adds up and comes with a price such as burnout. You may not know this, but it should not come as any surprise that women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety than men.
Most women more often than not, in my opinion, are battling high-functioning anxiety. Now, high-functioning anxiety is not an official diagnosis in the DSM; it is characterized as a generalized anxiety disorder but when you look at how to define high-functioning anxiety it is undeniable. The truth is women are often a shining example of a definition of high-functioning anxiety disorder.
In addition to recognizing the signs of high-functioning anxiety, it’s important to know that support is available. Anxiety therapy in Sugar Land, TX can offer valuable tools and strategies to help you manage the stress and pressure that comes with juggling so many roles. Through therapy, you can find ways to reduce anxiety, regain balance, and create a more sustainable way of living.
Let's Define High-Functioning Anxiety.
Women (and men, for that matter) with high-functioning anxiety often are successful in their careers or other roles. However, they internally struggle with feelings of stress, self-doubt, and the fear of failing or not being good enough. Women tend to struggle with their confidence levels and exhibit strong self-criticism tendencies.
The Outward Appearance vs. Inner Struggle
Women with high-functioning anxiety from the outside look like they have it together. They seem to always be under control. To others, they look like they are winning in their lives and can "do it all." To others, they are doing well with their work, have the time to volunteer in many different ways in their active cities, and have strong relationships. People do not see that behind that woman's smile is her constant stream of worries. She has a running list of things to do, and because of this, she is constantly stressed and feeling on edge. She feels this nagging fear of failing and having everything fall apart.
The Cost of Constant Striving
Despite their outward success and achievement people with high-functioning anxiety lack satisfaction with their lives. Their tendency to over-function, working extra hours, volunteering for extra assignments, or trying to perfectly do all tasks leaves them exhausted and depleted of joy. These women begin to comb through Instagram and TikTok late into the night. Looking for clues on how society defines success and how to manage the pressure they place on themselves to achieve. They are constantly looking to educate themselves on surpassing unrealistic expectations. It is heartbreaking. As women, they work round the clock to ensure everyone else's happiness but are often unable to acknowledge or feel their own. This intense ambition can lead to burnout.
The Impact on Personal Relationships
Women with high-functioning anxiety often risk their personal relationships because they spend so much time focusing on the tasks they have to do in their lives rather than their relationships themselves. Criticism, even constructive feedback, can be devastating for women with high-functioning anxiety. Women with high-functioning anxiety often overreact to any criticism and harshly internalize it. Women who have high-functioning anxiety typically neglect self-care and, because of this, face physical health problems associated with chronic stress.
So, What Are The Warning Signs For High-Functioning Anxiety?
Recognizing the signs of high-functioning anxiety is essential for seeking support from an anxiety therapist and managing this condition. Here are 12 signs to look out for:
1. Perfectionism: You may constantly strive for perfection and fear making mistakes. This can lead to spending excessive time on tasks and feeling inadequate when things aren't flawless.
2. Overthinking: Overanalyzing situations and conversations, even minor ones, is common. You might find it difficult to switch off your thoughts, leading to persistent worrying about the future or past events.
3. Fear of Disappointing Others: You may go to great lengths to meet others' expectations, fearing the consequences of letting them down. This fear might drive you to take on more than you can handle.
4. Procrastination: Despite being able to excel, you may delay tasks due to the anxiety associated with not meeting your high standards.
5. Physical Symptoms: High-functioning anxiety can manifest physically. Thus, leading to symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues.
6. People-Pleasing: You might struggle to say no and prioritize others' needs over your own, often at the expense of your well-being.
7. Difficulty Relaxing: It can be challenging for individuals with high-functioning anxiety to unwind and relax, as their minds are constantly racing with worries and to-do lists.
8. Sensitivity to Criticism: Criticism, even if constructive, may greatly affect you, leading to heightened self-doubt and rumination.
9. Striving for Control: An intense need for control over situations and outcomes is common. This can lead to stress when faced with uncertainty.
10. Avoidance of Social Situations: While you may excel in social settings, the pressure to maintain a certain image and fear of judgment can cause anxiety before, during, or after social interactions.
11. Physical Restlessness: You may experience restlessness or fidgeting. Which is a manifestation of your internal anxiety.
12. Difficulty Sleeping: Racing thoughts and worries can make it challenging to fall asleep or result in disrupted sleep patterns.
Taking the First Step Toward Managing High-Functioning Anxiety
Recognizing these signs is an important first step in addressing high-functioning anxiety. Seeking help from Southern Pine Counseling can be life-changing. We can help you learn coping strategies and teach you how to manage high-functioning anxiety. Remember, you are not alone, and it is okay to seek help.
Find Support in Managing Your High-Functioning Anxiety With Anxiety Therapy in Sugar Land, TX
If you're struggling with high-functioning anxiety, it’s time to take control and prioritize your well-being with anxiety therapy. Reach out to Southern Pine Counseling in Sugar Land to start your journey toward balance and peace of mind. Our compassionate anxiety therapists are here to support you every step of the way. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation
Begin meeting with a caring anxiety therapist
Start prioritizing your well-being and coping with your high-functioning anxiety!
Additional Counseling Services at Southern Pine Counseling
At Southern Pine Counseling, I provide services to address a wide range of issues for women. Alongside helping you manage your high-functioning anxiety with anxiety therapy, I offer trauma therapy to help empower individuals to regain a sense of control, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall well-being, fostering a positive and meaningful quality of life. For more information and to get to know us better, visit our blog.
