Subtle signs you suffer from high-functioning anxiety without even realising it

29 September 2023 , 16:07

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Subtle signs you suffer from high-functioning anxiety without even realising it

These are the six warning signs that you have high-functioning anxiety and 'don't even know it', according to a licenced therapist. For those who may be unaware, generalised anxiety disorder is where you feel anxious most of the time.

High-functioning anxiety is a subset of generalised anxiety that often goes unnoticed or undiagnosed. It happens when a person experiences anxiety symptoms, but instead of avoiding social situations or encounters, they make a concerted effort to confront their anxieties and become adept at masking their signs. JM, a therapist from the US, said those who always have high standards for themselves and live in constant fear of failure may be suffering from the mental health disorder.

High levels of anxiety can also affect your ability to concentrate, sleep and carry out everyday tasks. In order to spread more awareness about the disorder, he recently shared unknown symptoms that many probably consider 'normal' in order to spread awareness. "Number one, you have a constant fear of disappointing or angering others," he said at the start of the video he uploaded to TikTok.

While it isn't abnormal to be aware of what people think of you, constant fear of being perceived negatively or overthinking others' opinions of you could stem from a social anxiety disorder. He continued: "Number two, you're constantly planning for the worst-case scenario. Number three, you have a really hard time relaxing. Number four, you struggle with making decisions."

People with anxiety often spend their time overthinking scenarios, which makes it difficult for them to switch off and relax. The disorder can go hand-in-hand with physical and mental manifestations, such as frequently accelerated heart rate or being lost in a spiral of worrying about the future. Those with high-functioning anxiety also struggle to make decisions as they're worried they'll pick the wrong option. Constantly overthinking has made them expect the worst out of situations, even if they are seemingly harmless.

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"You have a tough time getting your mind to shut off at night," JM said. "And number six, you procrastinate and you only get things done at the very last minute." There are several reasons an anxiety disorder might lead to procrastination, such as fear of being criticised, being scared of an unknown outcome and feeling inadequate or incapable.

People rushed to the comments to share their thoughts on the six signs, with many saying they related to the information that JM shared. "I've always suspected I've had anxiety but I didn't know these were signs," one person commented. "You are like a stranger who is taking care of us. Ty," said another. A third added: "Oh my god, you're the first person that has described me to the fullest."

Billie Schwab Dunn