SOS to the Burned-Out Women of WOPU

You’re succeeding—juggling work, family, community—but at what cost? Beneath the calm exterior, there may be an invisible force of anxiety quietly burning you out. If this resonates, you’re not alone—and this message is for you.

Key Takeaways: What Is High‑Functioning Anxiety in Women?

• It’s not an official diagnosis—but a reality: women who appear accomplished and composed, while wrestling with persistent internal anxiety. Montare Behavioral Health+8The Wave of Clearwater+8Lightwork Therapy & Recovery+8

• Common signs include relentless overthinking, perfectionism paired with self‑criticism, and inability to “switch off” even during downtime. Lightwork Therapy & Recovery+1SummitStone Health Partners+1

• Physical warning signals: insomnia, muscle tension, headaches, digestive issues—even fatigue despite rest. Lightwork Therapy & Recovery+1arrowwoodaddictiontreatmentcenter.com+1

• Imposter syndrome and fear of failure lurk beneath success—leading to endless work and emotional exhaustion. arrowwoodaddictiontreatmentcenter.com+8Lightwork Therapy & Recovery+8The Wave of Clearwater+8

• Difficulty setting boundaries—saying “yes” too often—drives overcommitment and erodes self-care time. Lightwork Therapy & Recovery

• While your perfectionism and productivity may look like strengths, they’re often fueled by inner turmoil. Verywell MindLyra Health

Self‑Checklist: Do Any of These Feel Familiar?

1. I replay conversations repeatedly in my mind.

2. I feel guilty when I’m not being productive—even when I’m officially “off.”

3. I spend hours perfecting tasks that could be “good enough.”

4. I struggle to say “no,” even when I’m overwhelmed.

5. I avoid relaxing—even on days off, I feel restless.

6. I experience headaches, tight shoulders, digestive issues, or insomnia.

7. I dismiss compliments or attribute success to luck.

8. I delay starting tasks due to fear of imperfection.

9. I keep taking on more until I physically or emotionally crash.

10. I feel burned‑out—but still push through regardless.

If several fit, that’s a red flag—even if others think you’re thriving.

Why This Matters: It’s Not Just Stress, It’s Deeper

• Burning through while hiding emotional and physical distress eventually backfires. Burnout isn’t weakness—it’s your system screaming to slow down. Yes To Therapy+3The Wave of Clearwater+3SummitStone Health Partners+3Menachem Psychotherapy Group+1NewYork-Presbyterian+1Lightwork Therapy & Recovery

• Persistent unchecked anxiety can lead to chronic health issues: immune dysfunction, heart risks, insomnia, persistent fatigue. The Wave of Clearwater

• Emotionally, you may feel numb or disconnected from loved ones—and can't enjoy accomplishments. Revelare Recovery CenterMenachem Psychotherapy Group

Relationships strain: guilt, irritability, or people-pleasing patterns hurt both you and those you care about. Menachem Psychotherapy GroupThe Wave of Clearwater