For many of us, the pressure to excel and achieve can often feel overwhelming. With societal expectations emphasizing productivity and success, we can find ourselves falling into the cycle of striving to do more, be more, and achieve more. However, for some individuals, this drive for perfectionism and success may be accompanied by underlying anxiety—what is commonly referred to as high-functioning anxiety.
According to Statistics Canada, the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among Canadians aged 15 years and older has doubled over a decade, reaching 5.2 percent in 2022. While high-functioning anxiety isn't formally recognized as a mental health condition, it describes individuals who can seemingly thrive in their professional and personal lives despite experiencing significant internal anxiety.
However, beneath the surface, those with high-functioning anxiety often grapple with intense stress and worry. For some, their drive for productivity and perfectionism may be fueled by anxiety rather than genuine ambition. This makes high-functioning anxiety challenging to identify, even for those experiencing it themselves.
Are you unsure whether you're dealing with high-functioning anxiety? Here are five common signs to watch out for:
Constant Busyness: Do you find yourself always needing to keep busy? Whether it's managing multiple tasks simultaneously or constantly adding to your to-do list, an inability to relax and a perpetual need for activity could be a sign of underlying anxiety.
Perfectionism: Are you a perfectionist who always strives for excellence? While striving for high standards is admirable, it can also be a coping mechanism for managing anxiety. Constantly chasing perfection can lead to stress and dissatisfaction.
Chronic Worry: Do you often find yourself feeling on edge, worrying about various aspects of your life? High-functioning anxiety can manifest as persistent feelings of unease, even when there's no immediate cause for concern.
People-Pleasing: Are you constantly trying to please others and make them happy? While being considerate of others' feelings is important, prioritizing their needs over your own could indicate underlying anxiety about not being accepted or valued.
Never Feeling Content: Do you frequently feel dissatisfied with your life, always searching for the next best thing? Despite external success or accomplishments, individuals with high-functioning anxiety may struggle to find genuine contentment and fulfillment.
If you resonate with these characteristics, it's crucial to understand the concept of high-functioning anxiety and its potential impact on your well-being. While our society applauds productivity and achievement, it's essential to prioritize rest and self-care to prevent burnout and safeguard your mental and physical health.
Remember, recognizing and addressing high-functioning anxiety is the first step towards finding balance and cultivating a healthier relationship with yourself and your achievements.
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Learn more about Anxiety
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