How to Overcome High Functioning Anxiety & Depression: Practical Tips & Strategies

Introduction: What is High Functioning Anxiety & Depression?

High functioning anxiety disorder is an increasingly common mental health issue, characterized by excessive worry and stress even in the presence of normal or high levels of functioning. It can have a significant impact on a person’s life, leading to difficulty maintaining relationships, performing well at work or school, and managing everyday tasks. Fortunately, with treatment and support it is possible to manage high functioning anxiety disorder and live a fulfilling life.

Mental health is an increasingly prevalent issue, and depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders. Symptoms of depression and anxiety can range from feeling overwhelmed to having difficulty concentrating or sleeping. Knowing the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety is essential to recognizing them early on in order to seek out treatment options.

Practical Steps to Take Control of Your Mental Health and Break the Cycle of High Functioning Anxiety & Depression

Mental health is a crucial part of overall wellbeing, and it’s important to take control of it. For those suffering from high functioning anxiety or depression, the cycle can be difficult to break. Fortunately, there are practical steps that can be taken to help you gain control of your mental health and break the cycle. From understanding the causes of anxiety and depression, to setting achievable goals and creating a supportive environment, these steps will help you take control of your mental health and lead a healthier life.

Depression and anxiety can be overwhelming and debilitating, but there are ways to manage them. Learning to recognize the warning signs of your stressors is the first step. This can include physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Additionally, understanding how to use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness can help you cope with your emotions in a healthy way. With the right tools and support, managing stressors of depression and anxiety is possible.

How Therapy Can Improve Your Mental Wellbeing When Suffering from High Functioning Anxiety & Depression

I find that many of my clients who struggle from HFA also struggle with setting boundaries and settling comfortably into who they truly are. When we don't have clear personal boundaries we can't feel like other people run all over us. If we don't know and accept who we truly are we can fall into cycles of people pleasing, saying "yes" when we want to say "no" and especially symptoms of anxiety.

With time and self love we can learn to let go of other people's expectations of us and live as we were truly meant to live - with freedom and peace.

Kimberly Schildbach M.Ed. MFT LMHC

I'm passionate about helping anyone with anxiety, depression, family of origin trauma (adverse childhood experiences) and relationship struggles learn to set healthy boundaries in their relationships and be okay with who they are. Offering online therapy all across Massachusetts. LGBTQ+ affirming.

Please contact me to see if I might be able to support you as you journey forward.