The Dark Side of High-Functioning Anxiety: How It Can Lead to Burnout and Strategies for Prevention - Video Transcript
Hey everyone, I'm Kristen, the anxiety therapist. Today, I want to discuss the dark side of high-functioning anxiety and how it can lead to burnout. I'll also share a few strategies to help prevent it.
If you struggle with high-functioning anxiety, there's a good chance you are a high-achieving professional with a successful career. You might seem to have it all together, but beneath the surface, you're struggling with high-functioning anxiety.
High functioning anxiety is when someone appears to have it all together on the outside, but on the inside, they're constantly feeling worried, stressed, overwhelmed, etc. Your anxiety might motivate you to work hard and achieve success, but it's also a double-edged sword that can lead to burnout and exhaustion.
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can lead to decreased productivity, low motivation, and even physical illness. If left unchecked, high-functioning anxiety can lead to burnout. However, there are strategies you can use to prevent burnout and start taking care of yourself.
Here are some strategies you can follow:
Take breaks and practice self-care. This includes things like exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones who are supportive.
Set firm boundaries and prioritize your workload. It can be challenging to say no to non-essential tasks and outsource or delegate tasks, but it's necessary to prevent burnout.
Seek support from a therapist or a coach. They can provide tools and techniques to manage anxiety, prevent burnout, and explore the root of the problem.
High-functioning anxiety can be a powerful motivator, but it can also be a huge liability. It's not sustainable in being successful. By taking care of yourself and seeking support, you can prevent burnout and continue to thrive in your personal and professional life. So be sure to prioritize your mental health and take control of your anxiety because you deserve it.
If you need help, I have a high-functioning anxiety workbook available for sale on my website catharticspacecounseling.com. Additionally, I offer a free 15-minute video consultation call if you want to work one-on-one. Feel free to schedule that on my website as well.
Remember, taking care of yourself can feel uncomfortable and unproductive, but it's crucial to prevent burnout. High-functioning anxiety is often rewarded in our society, but it can wear you down if it's not addressed. Take care and have a good week. Talk to you next time.
