Starting middle school can bring many changes. It’s normal to feel nervous about the unknown. But what if that anxiety doesn’t go away? What if it’s always there and you’re still able to function on the outside?
You might have high functioning anxiety disorder. This condition is when anxiety affects your daily life but you may seem fine to others. You might feel perfectionistic, overly critical, and have high expectations of yourself. You may also experience physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heart, and muscle tension.
Anxiety can make it hard to focus in class and keep up with homework. Here are a few tips to help manage stress in school:
- Take breaks: Schedule in time for yourself throughout the day to relax and recharge.
- Exercise: Even a short walk can improve your mood and reduce anxiety.
- Talk to someone: A trusted friend or adult can help you work through difficult feelings.
- Prioritize: Make a list of what needs to be done and tackle the most important tasks first.
- Be kind to yourself: It’s okay if everything doesn’t go perfectly. Give yourself credit for what you do accomplish.
High functioning anxiety disorder can feel overwhelming at times, but there are ways to cope. Don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional if anxiety is interfering with your ability to enjoy life or succeed in school. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.