beneath the surface of high functioning anxiety
High-Functioning Anxiety (HFA) is a non clinical term to characterize people who function well by society's standards, (they can be described as go getters, overachievers, and busybodies) but they are not functioning in a way that allows them to feel grounded, authentic, and at peace within themselves in a sustainable way.
You may experience High Functioning Anxiety if…
You have a hard time saying no.
Other people have told you:
“I had no idea you had anxiety!”
“You are so productive."
“You're always so put together.”
You feel restless and antsy when you slow down enough to rest.
You often think to yourself, “there is so much to do.”
You struggle with feeling like an imposter.
You have a critical inner dialogue.
The HIgh Functioning Anxiety Iceberg
High-functioning anxiety is a complex and often misunderstood experience. The iceberg metaphor serves as a visual representation of the layers of emotions and pressures that people with HFA typically navigate beneath the surface.
The Tip of the iceberg
You can imagine the tip of the high-functioning anxiety iceberg as the visible representation of someone’s life. Externally, people with HFA typically appear to be accomplished, successful, and seemingly put-together. They meet deadlines, engage in social activities, and overall maintain a positive attitude. But this is only what is visible to the outside world.
Beneath the surface
High-functioning anxiety is characterized by an internal struggle to meet the high and often unattainable expectations of society, fueled by the relentless pursuit of perfection. The need to be present as nice, productive, and hardworking becomes a heavy burden, which often pushes people to the brink of exhaustion and burnout. This internal struggle is rarely (if ever) shown externally, leading people with HFA to feel misunderstood, lonely, anxious, and sometimes like an imposter. The fear of judgment, rejection, or failure intensifies the anxiety that lies beneath the surface. And the pursuit of success becomes a double-edged sword, driving people with HFA to achieve more and more while simultaneously increasing the heavy weight of their internal struggles.
Isolation
One of the paradoxes of high-functioning anxiety is the isolation that often comes with it. Despite being surrounded by people and activities, people with HFA may feel alone in their experience. The fear of burdening others with their internal struggles can lead them to isolate themselves, creating more loneliness and disconnection beneath the surface of their carefully crafted exterior.
Breaking the ice
Acknowledging high-functioning anxiety is the first step towards breaking through the HFA iceberg. It’s important for both people experiencing HFA, and those around them to recognize the signs and offer support as needed. Creating a culture of understanding, compassion, and open communication helps dismantle the societal pressure that contributes to this hidden struggle. We can start to create that change within ourselves and within our friendships, families, and communities.
Resources
Anxiety and fear don't have to control your life forever. See our high-functioning anxiety resource list below for the support that’s right for you: