RESOURCES
Written and curated by MandyThroughout my career, I have found that there are some tried and true resources that can be beneficial in my clients’ mental health journey. This space is home to those assets, as well as some other writings and learnings that I have discovered along the way.
Please feel free to use these resources and reach out if you have any questions. If you’d like to receive these blogs and other helpful tips in your inbox, subscribe to The Grounding Guide.
*These resources should not be used as a replacement for virtual or in-person therapy, and represent a compliment to mental health services.
High-Functioning Anxiety: What It Is and How to Know If You Have It
Ever feel like you're doing all the things like checking tasks off your to-do list, showing up for others, juggling responsibilities—yet inside, you’re constantly battling racing thoughts, self-doubt, or a fear of messing it all up? If so, you might relate to something called high-functioning anxiety.
High-functioning anxiety isn’t a formal mental health diagnosis, but it’s a term that resonates deeply with many people, especially high-achievers, perfectionists, and those who appear to have it “together” on the outside, but feel overwhelmed and emotionally drained on the inside.
Why People-Pleasers and Perfectionists Often Feel Anxious
If you have people-pleasing or perfectionist tendencies, you may frequently experience anxiety. This often happens because both people-pleasers and perfectionists worry about being seen as inadequate. The fear of criticism or rejection drives them to stick to what feels safe, work harder, and ignore their own needs—all in an effort to prove their worth and keep others happy. Understanding the connection between anxiety, people-pleasing, and perfectionism is crucial to breaking free from these patterns and living a more authentic, fulfilling life.
Control: A Hidden Form Of Anxiety
Being in control can feel comforting and is often seen as something positive. However, if the need to control things in your life is consuming you, it might be a sign that there’s something deeper going on. Some people who feel this way might hold high expectations for themselves and others or have difficulty coping with change or unpredictable scenarios. This is why it’s common for people who experience anxiety to engage in behaviors that attempt to gain control over their environment or thoughts. In this post, we’ll explore why you might feel the need to control, the problems it creates, and how to practice releasing control.
Is Your Daily Coffee Making You Feel Anxious?
For many of us, drinking coffee is something that brings us joy and helps us start our day. It not only tastes good, but it makes us feel energized and has many health benefits. If you’re anything like me, you might associate the act of drinking coffee with something positive. I’ve noticed that my mood tends to increase when I drink my favorite latte or try a new coffee shop. Although there are many benefits of drinking coffee, caffeine can have different side effects for everyone. If you deal with anxiety, it can be helpful to be aware and mindful of the impact coffee might be having on your symptoms.