More than 40 million people in the U.S. suffer from anxiety, and many of them do not even experience any symptoms.  The reason for this is because they have high-functioning anxiety, so they seem organized, confident, and constantly busy, but are in fact struggling with their thoughts inside.

Anxiety is extremely stressful, even though sufferers can still lead a successful life. These people perceive the world in a different way and constantly worry about possible scenarios that come up in their minds.

If you have high-functioning anxiety, you often feel that you…

1. Are constantly judged by others

2. Cannot make eye contact

3. You have difficulties to fall asleep

4. You apologize for all things you do

5. Need to compare yourself to others all the time

6. You need to pay attention to even the smallest details, as you are a perfectionist

7. You are always worried about what people think about you

8. You need to keep your mind busy

9. Can’t say “no” even when you should

10. You arrive much earlier on appointments

11. You need to overthink every move you make

12. Need to make a list in order to keep things organized

13. Are constantly asking people to repeat things like directions or instructions

14. You constantly worry about the future

15. You need to distract yourself when stressed

16. You replay past conversations in your mind

17. You are preparing yourself for the worst possible scenario

18. You decline invites because you just don’t feel like going anywhere

19. Constantly do things like twirling your hair or biting your nails

20. Procrastinate on a task since it worries you

Moreover, according to Deepak Chopra, M.D.:

“Because of the mind-body connection, you should also consider the physical side of anxiety. Even if you have accepted worry as a tolerable trait, it exacts a price in the form of insomnia, easy startle response, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, headaches, inability to relax, trembling, twitching, feeling out of breath, and various stomach and digestive problems.

If these persist for more than six months after something bad has happened to you, a diagnosis of general anxiety disorder may be appropriate. Even if your symptoms are manageable, you shouldn’t have to live this way.  Anticipating the worst, which has become a habit even when no threat is in sight, distorts how you approach work, family, and the world in general.”

Additionally,

“One aspect of anxiety is racing thoughts that won’t go away. Meditation helps with this part of the problem by quieting the overactive mind. Instead of buying into your fearful thoughts, you can start identifying with the silence that exists between every mental action.

Through regular practice, you experience that you’re not simply your thoughts and feelings. You can detach yourself from these to rest in your own being. This involves remaining centered, and if a thought or outside trigger pulls you out of your center, your meditation practice allows you to return there again.”

Despite meditation, anxiety can be drastically alleviated with the help of methods like yoga, and aromatherapy. They help you clear the mind, relax, and relieve stress.