Travel Habits That Are High-Functioning Anxiety In Disguise

While traveling is supposed to be filled with fun and adventure, it can often come with over-planning, worrying and strict habits that are actually high-functioning anxiety in disguise.

Sure, being a stickler about time and a set schedule while on vacation is sometimes needed to experience all the sights ― but when it takes over your entire travel experience, it may be high-functioning anxiety.

This type of anxiety differs from generalized anxiety disorder because it can often go unnoticed by others, as those who experience it tend to mask their symptoms in public.

“They are often successful and hold leadership positions in professions such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, politicians or business executives,” said Dr. Michael Louwers, an associate medical director at the Reset Medical and Wellness Center.

While high-functioning anxiety is not an official diagnosis, it’s used as a term to describe individuals who experience anxiety symptoms while still managing to navigate their daily lives.

“These individuals are often high-achievers and perform well in work or public settings, but internally or at home, they struggle with persistent anxiety. It’s a pervasive feeling that something isn’t quite right, making it difficult to fully settle or rest comfortably,” explained Scott Lyons, a licensed holistic psychologist.

Traveling may trigger anxiety because many aspects of the journey are beyond our control. Scheduling delays, plan changes and unexpected challenges can create a great deal of internal unrest or unease for those with high-functioning anxiety.

“The unpredictable nature of travel can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, making it difficult for individuals to relax and enjoy their trip,” Lyons said.

But as we all probably know, traveling is an enriching and health-promoting behavior that comes with a whole host of benefits. It’s critical you allow yourself the opportunity to take trips when you can ― anxiety or not.

So how can you tell if this is a problem for you, especially when you’re on vacation? Since this type of anxiety can present in many ways, our experts provided four travel habits that are actually secretly high-functioning anxiety in disguise:

People with high-functioning anxiety may spend an inordinate amount of time planning their trips, researching destinations, accommodations and activities in great deal.

“This extensive planning helps them feel more in control and prepared for any potential…