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.
Eldest Daughter Syndrome: How Birth Order Can Shape Behaviors and Relationships
If you’re the eldest daughter, you may carry more than just the weight of responsibility. While not an official diagnosis, "Eldest Daughter Syndrome" is a term used to describe the unique challenges and experiences often faced by the oldest daughter. The role you took on within your family dynamic can influence patterns of behavior that extend far beyond childhood. If you notice yourself struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing as an adult, it could be rooted in your experience as the eldest. Often, these roles are internalized, leaving you feeling like you must always be “on”—the fixer, caretaker, or the one in control—which can also influence how you approach your relationships.
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.