From the outside, it may seem as though you have everything under control.
You are the one who arrives early, never misses a deadline, and always delivers results. Colleagues respect your professionalism, friends admire your drive, and your achievements speak for themselves. To the world, you look calm, capable, and successful.
But inside, it can feel very different. Perhaps there’s a constant hum of tension, a relentless inner voice pushing you to do more, achieve more, be more. Sleep doesn’t come easily, downtime feels uncomfortable, and every success is quickly overshadowed by the fear of slipping up.
This is the reality for many executives, entrepreneurs, and high-achievers living with high-functioning anxiety. Whilst it isn’t a formal clinical diagnosis, it’s a widely recognised experience: outward success paired with inward struggle.
And it is more common than you might think. Anxiety disorders affect around 284 million people worldwide. In high-pressure industries, the numbers are even higher. A Deloitte survey found that over 70% of senior executives report struggling with stress and anxiety, often without ever disclosing it. Why? Because success and struggle rarely fit the same narrative, and so the anxiety stays hidden.
At Ibiza Calm, we work with many high achievers who know this hidden struggle all too well. On the surface, they appear composed and accomplished; underneath, they are running on empty. The good news is that there are healthier, more sustainable ways to succeed, and to actually enjoy the life you’ve built.
What is high-functioning anxiety?
To understand high-functioning anxiety, it helps first to look at anxiety itself.
It is estimated that around 4% of the global population lives with an anxiety disorder. Feeling anxious in certain situations is a normal and necessary human response. Before a big presentation, an exam, or the first day in a new role, you might notice your heart racing, palms sweating, or a sense of nausea. These symptoms occur because the autonomic nervous system has triggered the fight-or-flight response, a physiological reaction designed to help you face or escape danger.
For most people, these feelings subside once the stressful situation passes. But imagine living with that heightened state constantly. An anxiety disorder is characterised by persistent worry, fear, and stress so overwhelming that it interferes with everyday life.
High-functioning anxiety manifests differently. On the surface, individuals appear calm, composed, and accomplished. Yet beneath that polished exterior, there is often a continuous hum of fear, self-criticism, and overthinking. This type of anxiety often fuels perfectionism, over-preparation, and over-commitment. Whilst such traits can propel someone to succeed in demanding, competitive environments, they can also lead to significant emotional strain, burnout, and a life dominated by tension.
It is sometimes referred to as the “double life” of success: outward accomplishments paired with private unease.
Why executives and high achievers are at risk
High-functioning anxiety is widespread among executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals in high-pressure roles. And it is no wonder.
According to the World Health Organization, stress and anxiety are among the leading causes of workplace illness globally, costing the world economy an estimated $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. A survey by Deloitte revealed that 77% of professionals have experienced burnout in their current job, and nearly 70% of senior executives admit to feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their role.
For many high achievers, the very traits that fuel success, ambition, attention to detail, and drive, can also mask chronic anxiety. Corporate cultures that reward long hours, constant availability, and perfectionism create the perfect environment for anxiety to flourish unnoticed.
Executives often carry:
- High responsibility, every decision has consequences for teams, clients, and reputations.
- Constant connectivity, with smartphones and laptops ensuring work is never far away.
- Unrealistic expectations, both self-imposed and culturally reinforced, where mistakes feel unacceptable.
- Pressure to perform, not just once, but continuously, with little room to pause or reflect.
This combination makes leaders and high-performers particularly vulnerable to high-functioning anxiety. Many dismiss it as “part of the job”; until the stress becomes impossible to ignore.
Signs you might have high-functioning anxiety
It is tempting to overlook anxiety when you are still hitting your goals and appearing successful. Yet recognising the signs early is crucial if you want to avoid burnout, protect your health, and sustain performance over the long term.
Some of the most common indicators include:
- Persistent overthinking: Replaying conversations, emails, or decisions endlessly, often long into the night.
- Perfeccionismo: Setting impossibly high standards and feeling inadequate or distressed when you inevitably fall short.
- Over-scheduling: Filling every moment of the day to avoid quiet time, where anxious thoughts may surface.
- Difficulty switching off: Feeling guilty, restless, or unproductive when attempting to relax.
- Fear of failure: Worrying that your success is fragile, or that others will “see through” you.
- Síntomas físicos: Tension headaches, jaw clenching, stomach issues, racing heartbeat, or poor sleep.
At first glance, these behaviours may look like admirable dedication or “just part of being successful.” But over time, they can quietly erode both mental and physical well-being.
Imposter syndrome and high-functioning anxiety
One of the most common companions to high-functioning anxiety is imposter syndrome. Despite clear evidence of success (promotions, qualifications, or the respect of colleagues), many high achievers live with a persistent fear of being “found out” as less capable than others believe them to be.
Studies suggest that up to 70% of professionals experience imposter syndrome during their careers, and it is especially prevalent among high-performers, senior leaders, and entrepreneurs. On the outside, you may project confidence and capability; inside, you may feel as though you are only one mistake away from exposure.
This constant self-doubt fuels high-functioning anxiety. Perfectionism, over-preparation, and overworking become tools to silence that nagging inner critic. Yet no matter how much you achieve, the sense of inadequacy never entirely disappears, leaving you stuck on a treadmill of relentless striving.
When combined, imposter syndrome and high-functioning anxiety can rob success of its joy. Achievements become milestones to survive rather than moments to celebrate, creating a cycle that leaves you outwardly accomplished but inwardly unsettled.
The hidden costs of high-functioning anxiety
The problem with high-functioning anxiety is that it often flies under the radar. Colleagues may see competence, but not the cost. Friends and family might notice the achievements, but not the strain. And the individual themselves often doesn’t realise the damage until it becomes impossible to ignore.
Some of the most common consequences include:
- Burnout, profound physical and emotional exhaustion that leads to irritability, disengagement, and loss of effectiveness.
- Relationship strain can cause loved ones to feel sidelined, neglected, or shut out.
- Declining health, chronic stress weakens the immune system, raises cardiovascular risks, and disrupts sleep.
- Loss of fulfilment, accomplishments can feel hollow when they are driven by fear instead of passion or purpose.
Left untreated, high-functioning anxiety can escalate into generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or even unhealthy coping strategies such as alcohol or substance misuse.
Why some turn to alcohol or drugs to cope
When you are living with constant pressure and expected to deliver results without showing weakness, it is easy to understand why many high achievers turn to alcohol or drugs as a way of coping.
Alcohol is woven into corporate life: after-work drinks, client dinners, networking events. It becomes a socially acceptable way to “take the edge off” anxiety or switch off after a demanding day. In fact, studies show that over 20% of executives admit to using alcohol to manage stress, and senior leaders are at higher risk of problem drinking compared to the general population.
Others may turn to stimulants to maintain energy during extended hours, or sedatives to force rest when sleep is elusive. Initially, these substances can feel like quick fixes, but over time, they worsen anxiety, disrupt sleep, and compromise health. What begins as a way to cope can quietly spiral into dependence.
The danger lies in the cycle: anxiety drives substance use, substances intensify anxiety, and the pressure to perform only increases. For many high achievers, it is this silent loop that leads them to seek help, not when success slows, but when the cost of maintaining it becomes too high.
Breaking the cycle: steps towards balance
Acknowledging high-functioning anxiety can feel uncomfortable, especially for those who are used to being the one others rely on. But recognising it is not a weakness, it is an act of strength, and a first step towards building a more sustainable version of success.
Practical strategies can help to interrupt the cycle:
- Recognise the patterns. Notice when anxiety is driving your behaviour. Are you working late because it is necessary, or because you fear falling short?
- Set boundaries: Research shows that executives who protect time for rest and recovery are more effective leaders.
- Prioritise rest: The World Health Organization has declared burnout an “occupational phenomenon,” with lack of rest a major factor.
- Challenge perfectionism: Aim for progress and excellence, not unattainable perfection.
- Talk about it: Sharing your experience with a trusted mentor, peer, or therapist reduces isolation and provides perspective.
Professional help and treatment options
At Ibiza Calm, we understand the unique pressures faced by executives and high achievers. Many of our clients come from high-pressure industries, where performance is prized but personal wellbeing is neglected.
Our approach combines evidence-based therapies with restorative practices designed to help individuals not only manage anxiety but also reconnect with themselves. Treatment may include:
- Psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based methods to challenge unhelpful thought patterns.
- Mindfulness and stress reduction, practical tools for calming the nervous system, improving focus, and reducing overthinking.
- Wellness therapies, yoga, massage, meditation, and nature-based activities to create balance and restore calm.
- Lifestyle support, building routines that encourage rest, resilience, and healthier coping mechanisms.
For those who also struggle with alcohol or substance use, we offer integrated treatment that addresses both the anxiety and the reliance on unhealthy coping strategies. This dual approach ensures long-term recovery and prevents one issue from fuelling the other.
Redefining success
Perhaps the most powerful step for anyone living with high-functioning anxiety is to redefine what success means. True success is not built on sleepless nights, relentless self-criticism, or coping mechanisms that quietly erode health.
Sustainable success looks different:
- It includes rest as well as results.
- It values relationships as much as revenue.
- It celebrates achievements without the constant fear of being exposed or undone.
By addressing high-functioning anxiety, you don’t lose your ambition or your edge, you gain clarity, balance, and the ability to enjoy the success you have worked so hard for.
At Ibiza Calm, we provide a confidential, compassionate environment where high achievers can step away from external pressures, reconnect with themselves, and build the tools for lasting wellbeing.
Your success should never come at the expense of your health. If you recognise yourself in these words, perhaps it’s time to pause, take stock, and invest in you.