Not all anxiety symptoms look the same. For many, anxiety hides in plain sight, masked by high achievement, ambition, and a seemingly “put-together” life. At Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC, we often work with individuals experiencing high-functioning anxiety who feel overwhelmed despite appearing successful on the outside. For those with high-functioning anxiety, recognizing the signs can often be difficult, but it’s the first step toward finding a treatment plan that can relieve some of the pressure you’re feeling and allow you to live a happier, healthier life.
7 Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety
If you’ve ever felt internally anxious while maintaining an organized, productive exterior, you likely are struggling to find balance, but there are sustainable solutions that can help you manage. Below are 7 common signs of high-functioning anxiety that might suggest you need help:
- Overthinking and Over-Preparing: You plan extensively and run through “what-if” scenarios constantly. This hyper-preparation may help you succeed but leaves you emotionally drained.
- Difficulty Saying No: You feel compelled to take on every task or request, fearing disappointment or failure. This often leads to burnout and resentment.
- Fear of Failure Despite Achievements: Even after reaching goals, you feel like it’s never enough. There’s a persistent fear of failure, often accompanied by imposter syndrome.
- Restlessness and Trouble Relaxing: Downtime makes you feel guilty or unproductive. Your mind races, even when you’re physically still.
- Need for Reassurance: You frequently seek validation from others, doubting your own decisions or self-worth, even after getting things “right.”
- Physical Symptoms: Tension headaches, muscle tightness, fatigue, or insomnia are common. These physical effects often go unaddressed because they’re normalized in high achievers.
- People-Pleasing Behavior: You aim to be seen as reliable and capable, often at the expense of your own well-being.
Anxiety Management with Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC
If these signs resonate with you, it’s important to know you don’t have to suffer at the expense of your success. High-functioning anxiety is real, and help is available. At Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC, Dr. Devers and Associates can help you treat your anxiety symptoms, get to the root of your stress, and offer a safe, supportive space where you can explore anxiety solutions that allow you to live a happier, healthier life. For more information on high-functioning anxiety, or to schedule an appointment, reach out to our office at (215) 677-3810 or fill out our online form. Your anxiety doesn’t have to control you; help is available. Call us today.
