Someone with high-functioning anxiety usually seems to have everything under control. They can get through their day with what appears to be a calm, collected vibe, and they experience tons of success as a result. What the world doesn’t realize is that on the inside, they’re hiding a ball of anxiety that’s tricky for them to deal with in the hustle of life. However, despite their struggles, they tend to excel at these things.
1. They Always Look Impeccable.
When someone with high-functioning anxiety enters a room, they look super-styled with great attention to detail. They’re obsessed with keeping it all together, and that includes the way they present themselves to the world. They always practice good hygiene and always dress smartly — you’ll never see them turn up anywhere looking like a slob.
2. They’re The Helper Of The Group.
If you need help with a flat tire on a cold morning, you’ll probably call your friend with high-functioning anxiety. Why? They’re always the generous one in the social circle, eager to help others, partly because they want you to keep them around. They’re scared of letting people down, so they go out of their way to be reliable and trustworthy.
3. They’re The Life Of The Party.
While you might think someone with anxiety will be a wallflower, adults with high-functioning anxiety can be the life of the party. They’ll tell jokes, make everyone laugh, and look like they’re having a blast. But, spend more time with them and you’ll probably see a bit of nervous energy behind their charm.
4. They Go Above And Beyond At Work.
Your friend with high-functioning anxiety likely has a work ethic that makes everyone around them jealous. They’re always at the office early and will work extra hours on the regular to make sure they get projects done. They don’t always do this because they’re passionate about their jobs — it’s more that they’re afraid to fail.
5. They’re Organizational Skills Are Top-Tier.
Chances are you’re also a tad envious of the exceptional organizational skills displayed by someone with high-functioning anxiety. Everything in their living space and office is in its rightful place. This helps them to feel that they’re in control even when things become overwhelming.
6. They Strive To Achieve The Highest Level Of Success.
Whether it’s climbing the corporate ladder or adding more promotions to their name, they’re always ambitious go-getters. They might leave everyone around them wondering how they do it, but they work hard on their drive and motivation. What others might not see is that they’re prone to lots of self-doubt, but they use this to propel them forward.
7. They Never Seem To Need A Vacation.
After months of hard work, people might tell someone with high-functioning anxiety that they should take a vacation to relax and unwind, but they never do! This is because they feel like their anxiety (not just their motivation) never takes a break. They wouldn’t know what to do with themselves if they slowed down a bit, and they don’t necessarily want to find out.
8. They’re Great At Analyzing Details.
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All that overthinking has some benefits, it seems. People with high-functioning anxiety are skilled at paying attention to details others might miss. So, whether you’re asking them for advice on a work pitch or on your date’s confusing texts, they’ll give you good insights.
9. They Don’t Let Their Insecurities Define Them.
When speaking to someone with high-functioning anxiety, they could be dealing with lots of stress and self-doubt, but you’d probably never know. They don’t let their pounding heart or anxiety-ridden thoughts interfere with their conversations or interactions. They’ll keep a brave face until they’re alone. While this isn’t necessarily a good thing — everyone needs a release — it does help them avoid letting their worries define them.
10. They’re Great With Alone Time.
Someone with high-functioning anxiety doesn’t always need to be social. Although they can navigate such situations with ease, they need to have alone time to rest and replenish their reserves. You might be in awe of how they choose chilling out alone over social events, but you might not realize they need that time away from everyone so they can regroup without feeling overwhelmed.
11. They Go The Extra Mile.
When something needs to be accomplished, you can rely on someone with high-functioning anxiety. They’ll push themselves to the max to achieve their goals or help someone in their time of need. They give situations their all, which is inspiring. Then, later, they can crash in private.
12. They Don’t Need Much Sleep.
If you have a friend with high-functioning anxiety, it sometimes feels like they never need to get much sleep. Sure, this is a power trait because they seem to be able to deal with a few rough nights of insomnia without totally crashing, but sooner or later, it’s gonna catch up with them.
13. They’re Exremely Empathetic.
When you’re stressed or anxious, it’s helpful to turn to your friend who knows exactly how it feels. People with anxiety tend to be empathetic to other people’s negative emotions because of how damaging they can be. They’re great to turn to when you need someone who really gets it.
14. They Take Stress In Their Stride.
Having high-functioning anxiety can make people seem as cool as a cucumber under stress. Instead of freaking out, losing their cool, or shouting, they brace for impact and go for it. This is probably why you’ll reach out to your friend with high-functioning anxiety when problems arise — you know they’ll calm you down (even if deep down they’re experiencing intense emotions).
15. They’re Extremely Loyal.
People with high-functioning anxiety is that they can be some of the best people to know. They’re so loyal, and if they’re on your side, you never have to doubt them. Although this can be linked to their tendency towards people-pleasing, it’s a wonderful quality that should be celebrated.
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