6 Overlooked Symptoms of High Functioning Anxiety

Anxiety—it's a word many of us are familiar with, but not all anxiety looks the same. Some people struggle with what's known as high-functioning anxiety. On the surface, everything seems fine—successful ambitious careers, active social lives, and seemingly well-organised daily routines. But underneath this mask lies a constant, often overwhelming, sense of unease.

High-functioning anxiety isn't always visible to the outside world, but its symptoms can be just as challenging as more recognisable forms of anxiety. Let's take a closer look at what high-functioning anxiety looks like for many of my anxiety coaching clients.

1. Perfectionism and Overachievement

Those with high-functioning anxiety often set incredibly high standards for themselves. They push themselves to the limit, often constantly aiming for perfection and these high standards are usually driven by a deep rooted fear of failure. This pressure, self-judgement and working extra hours can lead to exhaustion.

Instead wouldn’t it be great to have balanced goals, where there’s pride in accomplishments without the constant fear of failure. And to be motivated by passion and purpose, rather than anxiety.

2. Overthinking and Excessive Worry

High-functioning anxiety can cause a constant loop of "what ifs" and over-analysis. Even small decisions, such as what to write in an email or when to organise an event for, can feel monumental - and the mind often races with concerns and worst case scenarios.

Instead, imagine how different would it feel to make more decisions with confidence and clarity. Beginning to learn to trust your instincts after spending years ignoring the signals being given. It’s much easier to tune into how you feel about something when you have a calmer base line, which can be achieved through holistic methods, such as breathwork. Imagine feeling at ease with the choices made, free from the burden of endless "what ifs.” Wouldn’t that be a relief!

3. Need for Control

To manage their anxiety, I often see people develop a strong need to control their environment. This could mean planning every detail of their day, avoiding uncertainty, or being overly cautious in social situations. And when things don’t go to plan it can sometimes really throw them off. I used to be known for my extensive lists! 

Instead of a need for control, envisage being able to embrace life's uncertainties with grace and adaptability. When clients practice allowing themselves to go with the flow they begin to enjoy the spontaneity of life rather than comparing things to the ‘plan’, and be in the present moment, where many of the joyful moments of life are.

4. Inability to Relax

Even in moments meant for rest, the mind of people with high-functioning anxiety is often still racing - going over what has happened in the day or trying to have the answer for things in the future. I hear about clients trying to watch a Netflix series and find they aren’t really present and find it hard to get into the episode, because their mind is busy and their body can be restless. 

People with high functioning anxiety often feel guilty for taking a break or find it hard to switch off from work or other responsibilities. They may link their self-worth to productivity so keeping busy and achieving measurable goals can be a driving force! They can also find it hard to relax unless they are completely alone, as they are constantly monitoring how they think other people are perceiving them when in company, often from a fear of being seen to ‘not be good enough’. 

Instead of being unable to relax, imagine being able to unwind and find relaxation and peace, in much needed downtime. Whether that be watching a series, chatting with a friend or going for a stroll or something creative. Being able to disconnect from work and responsibilities, helps those with high functioning anxiety to enjoying restful moments without guilt or lingering stress. And picture being able to relax in the company of other people, because you feel more secure in who you are.

5. People-Pleasing

A strong desire to be liked or not to disappoint others or having a sense that they will be told off, can lead to people-pleasing behaviour. Many of my clients struggle to say no, even when they’re stretched too thin - which can lead to resentment and a feeling that there is no control over their time and life. Women in society aren’t taught to say no, they are often given messages to blend in and ensure others are ok - which doesn’t help - but that’s perhaps a whole conversation for another day!

In reality we need to be the main person who looks out for ourselves, as uncomfortable as that might feel at first. Often when you are saying Yes to someone else, if it’s not aligned with you - you are saying No to yourself. 

It’s not your job to keep everyone happy, they have to be responsible for themselves and how they feel, just as you do. Therefore it is essential to set healthy boundaries and practice assertiveness - which can be terrifying at first - I know from experience! When you prioritise your own well-being and say No when necessary, without fear of disappointing others - life begins to feel more balanced and you can begin to trust yourself that YOU have your best interests at heart.

It’s important to recognise that looking after yourself is not selfish but essential. Imagine looking back in 30 years time and realising that you lived most of your life based on what you thought other people wanted rather than what lights you up and supports your health.

Of course we may want to help others and sometimes we have to dig deep but on the whole it couldn’t be at the expense of yourself.

6. Physical Symptoms

Anxiety isn't just in the mind—it manifests physically. When the mind is tense the body is tense and vice versa. People with high-functioning anxiety might experience headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, or trouble sleeping for example. 

Instead, visualise being in a state of physical comfort and well-being. Where you can enjoy restful sleep, free from tension, headaches, or digestive issues, and feel energised and healthy most days. Picture how differently your day might feel from waking up to going to bed.

Recognising these symptoms is the first step towards understanding and managing high-functioning anxiety. It's important to remember that while these individuals may appear to have it all together, they might be fighting a battle beneath the surface.

The nervous system and physiology of the body and mind play a huge role in managing high functioning anxiety and link to balancing Vata dosha in Ayurvedic Science. When you know how to create a lifestyle that supports your mental and physical health and you can manage the stresses of daily life and bring yourself back to a calm homebase, you become a resilient ambitious professional.

If you or someone you know is experiencing high-functioning anxiety, know that you're not alone. 

Seeking help and exploring holistic approaches like the time-tested approach of Ayurveda can all contribute to finding balance and relief. 

If you can relate to any of these symptoms I have a FREE 15 minute training I invite you to watch...

Beat High Functioning Anxiety:3 Steps to Reclaim Your Life From Worry, Overwork & Self-Doubt (And Finally Feel Limitless). Get access now.