The relationship between anxiety and executive function

The term executive function refers to a set of skills we begin to develop as children and hone throughout our lives. They include things like planning, organizing, prioritizing and juggling tasks, paying attention, and following instructions. These skills help us tune out distractions, remember important things, focus on our goals, and control our impulses. No one is born with all of these skills. But most people can learn to improve them with some practice and the right support.

By contrast, the term “executive dysfunction” refers to a deficit in executive functioning skills. Anyone can experience executive dysfunction, but it appears to disproportionately affect people with anxiety disorders and other mental health conditions. Executive dysfunction can negatively affect many aspects of life, like your ability to work, learn, care for yourself, and form relationships.

The connection between anxiety and executive function is complex. But research suggests that it may be bidirectional. This means that having executive dysfunction may increase anxiety, and vice versa. Understanding the relationship between anxiety and executive dysfunction can help you better understand yourself and seek the help you need to break the cycle. 

How are anxiety and executive function linked?

We don’t yet fully understand why anxiety and executive function are so closely linked. But it may be due, in part, to biology and differences in the brain. For example, intense anxiety can consume a person’s cognitive resources. When someone’s in an anxious state, it can be difficult to think about anything else. This may leave little “brain space” for executive functioning tasks, like planning and organizing. 

The link between anxiety and executive function may have a behavioral component as well. We know that executive dysfunction can impact things like self-control and working memory. Since deficits in these skills can negatively affect relationships, a person with executive dysfunction may experience anxiety in social situations. 

Anxiety could also occur in other situations where executive dysfunction detracts from a person’s ability to succeed. For example, a person who struggles with time management and task prioritization may feel anxious when they receive a multi-phase assignment at work or school.  

Can anxiety cause executive dysfunction?

It’s possible to have anxiety without experiencing executive dysfunction. But living with symptoms of an untreated anxiety disorder can negatively affect a person’s ability to function in many ways. 

For example, anxiety can lead to sleep problems, digestive issues, and other uncomfortable physical symptoms. It can also affect a person’s memory, cognitive flexibility, and ability to make decisions. All of these symptoms can diminish a person’s capacity for executive functioning.

Can executive dysfunction lead to anxiety?

Problems with executive functioning can show up in many different ways. For some people, these challenges can lead to anxiety and, in some cases, may point to an underlying anxiety disorder. For example, imagine a young adult who struggles with a few key executive function skills — time management, paying attention, and self-regulation. 

So, despite being highly capable, they’re continually reprimanded by their boss for missing deadlines and making careless mistakes at work. This experience reminds them of the struggles they had in school, and now they’re worried about getting fired. Walking into the office each morning, they’re hit with a wave of anxiety. They’re terrified of what will happen if they can’t meet expectations.

In this instance, it’s easy to see how anxiety might arise in the face of executive dysfunction. Anxiety is a very reasonable response to the threat of job loss or falling behind on important responsibilities, amplifying the pressure to perform. Recognizing this connection is the first step toward addressing both the anxiety and the underlying challenges of executive dysfunction.

Breaking the cycle of anxiety and executive dysfunction 

If your anxiety is impacting your executive functioning, you’re not alone. Many people say that their anxiety prevents them from staying organized, planning for the future, and accomplishing tasks. Some also say it affects their ability to concentrate, connect with others, regulate their emotions, and remember important information. And, unfortunately, these challenges can add up to even more anxiety.

The good news is that breaking the cycle of anxiety and executive dysfunction is possible. And it starts with seeking integrated care that addresses both concerns at the same time. There are therapists who can help you manage your underlying anxiety with approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) while also helping you improve your executive functioning skills. Sometimes, medications are also used to treat anxiety, and you can talk to your provider if you’re curious about this option. 

Over time, reducing your anxiety can enhance your capacity to attend to your executive functioning skills. However, remember that the reverse can also be true. Strengthening your executive functioning can improve your coping abilities and give you a renewed sense of confidence. This, in turn, can reduce anxiety. 

Find care with Rula

Anxiety and executive dysfunction are like two sides of the same coin. They often go hand in hand and can make each other worse. Experts don’t yet understand all the reasons for this overlap. But, fortunately, you can manage your anxiety and executive dysfunction with the right support. When you need integrated care that addresses all aspects of your mental health, we invite you to explore Rula. 

With a network of 10,000+ providers, we can help you find an in-network therapist who offers the specialized care you deserve in just a few clicks. No matter the issues you’re facing, with Rula, you can access affordable mental healthcare without having to wait weeks or months for an appointment. You can use our therapist-matching program to start the process today and meet with the provider of your choice via live video as soon as tomorrow.

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