Despite the efforts of public figures like Lady Gaga, Prince Harry and Katy Perry being more open about their own mental health experiences, still, nearly two-thirds of people with a known mental disorder never seek help from a health professional. Mental health therapist and author, Nancy Jane Smith, says there’s even a condition people may be experiencing that’s more hidden—not realizing they don’t have to feel this way. There are distinct differences between periods of high stress—which is often a necessary part of life—and chronic stress and anxiety. However, internally they're experiencing underlying irritability and frustration, constant rushing, tension headaches, and are often waking in the night with racing thoughts. While high functioning anxiety is not recognized as a mental health diagnosis, it has become a useful phrase to encapsulate an experience that is otherwise suffered in silence.

Source: Forbes May 28, 2019 11:03 UTC