What is 'Functional Anxiety'?

Firstly, ‘functional anxiety’ is not a clinical term. However, it is definitely a term used widely and known to many.

So what exactly is ‘functional anxiety’ and how does it differ from clinical anxiety? Clinical anxiety, or that which you may be diagnosed with by a Psychologist or GP can come in many forms. Anxiety is an umbrella term used to describe a number of different conditions. Some you may of heard of, including; Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety or Social Phobia. These conditions come with a number of symptoms specific to them and each person will usually need to satisfy a number of criteria in order to receive a diagnosis. Many people with a clinical anxiety disorder live rich and fulfilling lives, though clinical anxiety is often debilitating. In fact, one of the key criteria of a clinical anxiety diagnosis is that it significantly impacts your everyday functioning. For example, it may prevent you from doing something you would normally do or would like to do.

So how does this differ from ‘functional anxiety’? Well, it can be difficult to describe as it a term used by many with no ‘key criteria’ as such. Functional anxiety means different things to different people. Generally speaking, functional anxiety is such that doesn’t significantly impact you’re everyday functioning. Perhaps, you’re able to maintain a full-time job successfully or maintain a meaningful relationship but experience an underlying pervasive stress or worry. For someone that experiences functional anxiety vs. someone who doesn’t, you may find that you’re a chronic ‘list writer’, that it can be hard for you to relax unless you have your chores done. Perhaps, you can’t rest in a space that’s messy or you’re someone that can get paralysis from analysis. It may be that you often have niggling thoughts of ‘worst case scenarios’ in situations of stress, even though you know they’re unfair or unreasonable.

Although functional anxiety doesn’t significantly impact your lifestyle it can impact your energy levels, can occasionally lead to low motivation or poor concentration or lead to a low mood. As is in the name, it’s ‘functional’ but it’s also anxiety, something that be distressing and consuming at times.

So how can you support yourself if you’re living with ‘functional anxiety’? Firstly, being aware of it is key. Knowing that this may be a vulnerability for you is important in managing it. Perhaps you may need to be mindful of your commitments for a week. Consider reaching out to friends or family for a little additional support or comfort. You may need to ‘check in with yourself’ more regularly and ensure you’re setting aside time for relaxation and self-care. If, at any time, you feel that your anxiety goes beyond ‘functional’ or these solutions are no longer supportive, then it is important to reach out for professional support.

At Piece by Piece Therapies we are skilled professionals in supporting people to achieve the healthily lifestyle they need and want, including navigating the difficulties of anxiety and how to back your own mental health and wellbeing.

If you feel like you may need additional support in navigating the complex space that is anxiety, please click the button below and get in touch, we look forward to working with you!

Remember, be kind to yourself!