Choosing to Live with Severe Anxiety

A Paradox of Success and Medication Rejection

Abstract

This paper dives into the paradoxical relationship between severe anxiety and success, exploring why some individuals believe their anxiety drives their achievements and choose to not take medication. Through reviews of existing research, this paper examines the nature of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and the perceived benefits of anxiety. It also addresses the health risks of untreated anxiety and suggests strategies for managing anxiety without eliminating its positive effects. Ultimately, this paper emphasizes the importance of balancing anxiety's motivational aspects with the need to maintain overall mental and physical well-being.