Coping on the Outside, Exhausted Inside
A calming guide to understanding anxiety through the nervous system.
www.matthewjonestherapy.com Page 1High-Functioning Anxiety: Coping on the Outside,
Exhausted Inside
Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything “right”…
You’re getting through the day. You’re managing responsibilities. You appear calm and capable to everyone
around you.
And yet inside, something doesn’t feel settled.
This experience is incredibly common, and it’s often described as high-functioning anxiety — when someone
seems fine on the outside, but feels overwhelmed, wired, or emotionally exhausted beneath the surface.
The important thing to know is this: You’re not broken. And you’re not alone.
What Is High-Functioning Anxiety?
High-functioning anxiety isn’t a formal diagnosis, but it’s a term many people relate to. It describes a pattern
where someone keeps going no matter what, appears productive and in control, rarely asks for help, feels
pressure internally, and struggles to fully switch off.
Why You Can’t “Just Calm Down”
Anxiety isn’t only a thought process. It’s often a nervous system response. Your body may still be operating in
survival mode even when life is calmer now.
How Hypnotherapy Can Help
Modern hypnotherapy is calm, collaborative, and works with the subconscious patterns that influence stress
responses. Many clients describe feeling lighter, more grounded, and less reactive.
You Don’t Have to Carry It Alone
If you recognise yourself in this, support is available. I offer a free 15-minute introductory call to talk things
through with no pressure or obligation.