If you’ve ever found yourself excelling in your personal or professional life while simultaneously feeling overwhelmed by constant worry or fear, it might be time to explore the concept of high functioning anxiety. Could you be one of the many silently suffering from this condition, invisible to others yet tumultuous within?

I’ve personally felt it and especially when I was student mental health nurse juggling shift work on the psychiatric wards and course work to complete with deadlines that led to waves of stress and an operating level of anxiety. That’s why the team at Behaveo has carefully designed a high functioning anxiety test, reviewed and approved by psychiatric professionals, to help you gain insight into your mental health.

This test does not replace a formal diagnosis but serves as a preliminary tool to determine if professional help should be sought. By taking the test, you’ll gain a better understanding of your emotional landscape, helping you identify any potential issues that may need addressing.

Submit the free online questionnaire below and take the first steps in uncovering whether you are experiencing high functioning anxiety and what best next steps you should take. Because in our opinion here at Behaveo, knowledge is not just power. It’s the pathway to wellness.

Definition of high functioning anxiety

High-functioning anxiety is a term used to describe people who manage to maintain high productivity levels or perceived success in their lives despite experiencing significant anxiety being present. It’s not an official diagnosis is not an official diagnosis (according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V)) but rather it encapsulates the common struggle of those appearing successful and composed externally, while internally, they grapple with constant worry and fear.

Occupations most likely to suffer with HFA

  1. Entrepreneurs
  2. Healthcare Professionals (doctors, nurses)
  3. Teachers
  4. Lawyers
  5. Professional Athletes
  6. Performing Artists (musicians, actors)
  7. Students (particularly those in competitive programs)
  8. Software Developers
  9. Corporate Managers
  10. Parents (especially new parents or single parents)

According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health, it is estimated that nearly one-third, specifically 31% of U.S. adults will encounter an anxiety disorder at some stage during their lifetime. This statistic highlights the prevalence and widespread nature of anxiety disorders within the U.S. population. It’s important to note that this figure is not exclusive to one type of anxiety disorder, but rather includes a range of conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. (Source).

Woman taking an online high functioning anxiety test

High functioning anxiety symptoms can include overthinking, perfectionism, restlessness, and fatigue, all of which persist alongside a high level of functioning. This paradox often leads to delayed recognition of the problem, exacerbating the silent suffering. Understanding high-functioning anxiety is crucial to promoting mental health awareness, encouraging early detection, and facilitating effective management strategies.

The High Functioning Anxiety Test

Take our free, online high functioning anxiety test by answering the questions below. You don’t have to enter your personal email should you wish not to, but we do need a valid email address to send your results to. Visit www.temp-mail.org to quickly create a free, anonymous, temporary email address instead and input it below. Test responses are automatically deleted within 48 hours of receiving your diagnosis likelihood result.

About you

This can include student, parent, family carer, unemployed etc.

Symptom presentation

NeverRarelyUnsureSometimesAlways
How often have you been feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge?
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
How often have you been unable to stop or control worrying
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
NeverRarelyUnsureSometimesAlways
I feel restless or muscle tension due to anxiety.
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
I have difficulty sleeping because of overthinking
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
I often fear failure and it drives me to work harder
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
I experience racing thoughts that I find difficult to control
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
I constantly worry about a variety of things
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
I feel a constant need to be doing something
Never
Rarely
Unsure
Sometimes
Always
Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNeutralAgreeStrongly Agree
I am often successful in my work or academic life despite anxiety.
Strongly Disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
Anxiety drives me to perform better in my tasks
Strongly Disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
Anxiety affects my relationships
Strongly Disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
Anxiety affects my work or academic performance
Strongly Disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree

Coping mechanisms

Select all that apply

Final questions

Selected Value: 1
1 = Not at all… 7 = It’s disabling
If you’re able to, please describe your own perception of how anxiety is affecting you.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that this test is not a diagnostic tool and should not replace a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional. A proper diagnosis is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment options and support for individuals experiencing high functioning anxiety symptoms.

Seeking professional help for a full evaluation

Taking a high functioning anxiety test is a helpful starting point for identifying potential symptoms. However, it’s crucial to seek professional help for a full evaluation to ensure a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis. Mental health professionals have the expertise to differentiate between various disorders and determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Once a proper diagnosis is made, a mental health professional can develop a tailored treatment plan addressing the individual’s unique needs. This may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches.

Speaking with a mental health professional provides a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions. Seeking professional help ensures appropriate treatment and the necessary support for navigating the recovery process.

Options for treating high functioning anxiety

High-functioning anxiety, though not an official diagnosis, can be managed effectively with a range of treatment options often used for general anxiety disorders:

  1. Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a commonly used approach that helps individuals understand their thought patterns, teaching them to redirect harmful thoughts towards more positive, constructive ones.
  2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: These include meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation, all of which can help manage symptoms by promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
  3. Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and minimizing caffeine and alcohol can contribute to overall anxiety management.
  4. Medication: While not the first line of treatment, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines can be prescribed by a healthcare professional if deemed necessary.
  5. Support Groups: Connecting with others experiencing similar challenges can provide emotional support and shared coping strategies.

High functioning anxiety test FAQs

What is a high-functioning anxiety test?

A high-functioning anxiety test is an online tool designed to help individuals identify if they exhibit symptoms commonly associated with high-functioning anxiety. This includes a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms that may interfere with daily life despite one’s ability to maintain high productivity levels.

Can this test provide a definitive diagnosis of high-functioning anxiety?

No, this test cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. It is intended as a preliminary tool to help you understand if you’re experiencing symptoms commonly associated with high-functioning anxiety. For a formal diagnosis, it’s important to consult with a mental health professional.

How accurate is the high-functioning anxiety test?

While the high-functioning anxiety test is based on validated psychological scales and is reviewed by psychiatric professionals, it should not be used as a definitive diagnostic tool. Its accuracy in identifying symptoms can vary depending on individual responses. The test serves to provide an initial indication of whether you might be experiencing high-functioning anxiety.

What should I do after taking the high-functioning anxiety test?

If your results suggest that you might have high-functioning anxiety, it’s important to consult with a mental health professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment and guide you through appropriate treatment options. Even if your test results are low, but you’re still experiencing distress, it’s recommended to seek professional help.

Is my information safe when I take the test?

Yes, test submissions automatically delete after 48 hours. Reputable online tests like Behaveo’s typically maintain high standards of confidentiality and do not share your personal information. However, it’s crucial to read the privacy policy of the website before taking the test to understand how your information will be used and protected.