Is It Productivity or High-Functioning Anxiety?

If you’re someone who thrives on productivity and ambition, it might feel counterintuitive to question whether those qualities could actually be a form of high-functioning anxiety. After all, you’re managing your responsibilities, achieving goals, and even excelling in some areas. But beneath the surface, does it feel sustainable—or is it starting to take a toll?

As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I work with many clients who identify with these patterns, and one thing I admire about them is their innate drive to figure themselves out. There’s often a deep curiosity that draws them into therapy—a desire to make sense of the cycles they’re stuck in and learn how to live in a way that feels more fulfilling. And what I’ve found over time is that when these clients soften and begin to show themselves compassion, incredible growth and healing unfold.