13 Surprising Behaviors You Exhibit Because of High-Functioning Anxiety

While high-functioning anxiety isn’t formally recognized in the medical world, it’s a term widely embraced to depict how someone can be outwardly successful and efficient, yet inwardly battle with anxiety. People who identify with this often excel in their careers, maintain strong relationships, and generally keep up with life’s demands, but they carry a burden of worry and fear that isn’t always visible to others.

Since accomplishments and an active lifestyle can cloak high-functioning anxiety, it’s harder to spot, making those who experience it seem just fine on the surface. Let’s explore 13 behaviors that might suggest someone is managing high-functioning anxiety, shedding light on how it affects daily living and decision-making.

Struggling with Impostor Syndrome

People dealing with high-functioning anxiety might often feel like they’re not as competent as others perceive them to be. Despite their achievements, they may fear being exposed as a fraud. This constant doubt can add to their anxiety, making them overcompensate through work or other activities to prove their worth.

Overthinking Minor Decisions

Individuals with high-functioning anxiety may agonize over small decisions, like what to wear or what to eat. This behavior stems from a fear of making mistakes or worrying about the judgments of others, leading to prolonged decision-making processes.

Constantly Checking Emails and Messages

The need to stay connected and respond immediately to emails and messages can be a sign of high-functioning anxiety. It often comes from a fear of missing out on important information or a desire to please others by being perpetually available.

Apologizing Excessively

Frequent and unnecessary apologies can indicate high-functioning anxiety. This behavior often reflects a fear of upsetting others, a strong desire for approval, and an overestimation of one’s impact on situations.

Nervous Habits

Nervous habits like nail-biting, leg shaking, or hair twirling are common among individuals with high-functioning anxiety. These behaviors are often subconscious ways to release pent-up nervous energy.

Perfectionism

A tendency towards perfectionism, where an individual sets unrealistically high standards for themselves, is a common trait in high-functioning anxiety. This can result in significant stress, as they constantly strive to meet these standards and fear failure.

Difficulty Saying No

People with high-functioning anxiety often find it hard to say no to requests, as they fear disappointing others. They might overcommit themselves to avoid potential conflict or disapproval.

Over-Planning

Over-planning, including creating detailed to-do lists and excessive scheduling, can be a coping mechanism for managing underlying anxiety. It provides a sense of control and preparedness but can become overwhelming.

Trouble Sleeping

Difficulty falling or staying asleep can be a sign of high-functioning anxiety. Racing thoughts, overanalyzing the day’s events, and worrying about tomorrow can disrupt sleep patterns.

Avoiding Social Situations

Despite being capable in social settings, individuals with high-functioning anxiety might secretly feel overwhelmed by them and may find reasons to avoid social gatherings.

Need for Reassurance

Constantly seeking reassurance from others about their decisions, work, or relationships can be a symptom of high-functioning anxiety. It reflects self-doubt and a need for validation.

Hyper-Focus on the Future

An intense focus on future goals, often at the expense of present enjoyment, can indicate high-functioning anxiety. This behavior is driven by a fear of not achieving enough and the need to constantly plan for future success.

Physical Symptoms

High-functioning anxiety can also manifest physically, such as experiencing stomachaches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat. These symptoms can arise from constant stress and tension.