High Functioning Anxiety: when you look fine but you are exhausted inside

This is something I notice within my clients.
You might be the person that people don’t worry about. You’re able to get things done, and you’re reliable. From the outside it looks like you have everything under control.
Inside, it’s a different story. Your mind can’t slow down. You are thinking ahead and replaying conversations. Even when things are OK, your body just cannot relax. There’s a quiet tension that exists around you.
The thing is, when you are functioning, socializing, and keeping up with day-to-day tasks, it is easy to tell yourself it’s not that bad. However, high-functioning anxiety hides in plain sight.
You feel responsible for others’ emotions.
You are constantly riddled with guilt.
You’re always on, even when you are exhausted.
Of course, over time this takes a toll on us physically and mentally.
In many cases, this pattern does not develop out of nowhere. For a lot of people, especially those who grew up in environments where expectations were high or emotions were suppressed, being on top of things becomes a way to feel safe, avoid conflict, and avoid disappointment.
It can be hard to just stop because your nervous system has learned to stay alert. This has become a learned coping skill, but it is also keeping you stuck in a constant state of pressure.
Something that can help includes starting to view our anxiety differently.
To begin noticing where in our bodies we are holding tension, when our thoughts are spiraling, and creating moments where we don’t have to be “on.”
This does not happen overnight, just gradually over time.

If this resonates, counselling can be a space where you can learn to slow things down (and have moments where you can be off) and understand these patterns more deeply.

Anxiety Information

In the fast-paced world we inhabit, the challenges of life can often manifest as anxiety, a common and understandable response to the demands we face. As a therapist committed to fostering mental well-being, I am here to shed light on anxiety, offering insights and, importantly, a collection of valuable online resources available to those in Canada.

Anxiety is more than just a feeling of worry. It's crucial to recognize that experiencing anxiety is a part of the human experience, and seeking support is not only acceptable but a proactive step towards holistic well-being.

If you're based in Canada and navigating anxiety, numerous online websites offer valuable information and coping strategies. Let's explore a few:

1. Anxiety Canada (anxietycanada.com):

A comprehensive resource hub providing evidence-based information, self-help tools, and resources for managing anxiety. From informative articles to practical exercises, Anxiety Canada is a go-to for understanding and addressing anxiety.

2. MindBeacon (mindbeacon.com):

Offering internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), MindBeacon provides accessible and personalized support for those dealing with anxiety. Their guided programs and one-on-one therapy sessions can particularly benefit individuals seeking structured online therapy.

3. Wellness Together Canada (wellnesstogether.ca):

Initiated by the Government of Canada, Wellness Together Canada is a portal offering mental health support and resources. It includes confidential online tools and resources.

4. Crisis Services Canada (crisisservicescanada.ca):

Crisis Services Canada provides a toll-free hotline and text service for those in immediate need, connecting individuals with crisis responders. It's a vital resource for anyone experiencing heightened anxiety or emotional distress.

As a therapist, I aim to empower individuals on their journey toward mental well-being. The internet offers accessible resources that support anxiety.

Wishing you calm and resilience on your journey,

Munny