Could one have generalized anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder without treatment?

How can it be possible for one to reduce and live mostly normal without professional assistance with professionals? I swear medication makes it totally worse for me. The worst was Paxil, it only helped with the compulsuions and obsessions. I've been finding that participating in my hobbies and pursuing things I enjoy/want to do keeps me much calmer, satisfied, and happier. I don't nearly obsess or have compulsions like I had, but am not so sure about the Effexor. There's too many side effects and the headaches really get to me. I'm considering going off the medication.

With any disorder, open communication is the first step in recovery. Be honest with your doctor.
Do not stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first. Tell him or her what you are concerned about(ie, the headaches and the side effects).
There are things that can be done to minimize the side effects, and if they continue to bother you, there are other meds to try that are often very helpful.
If you don't like what your doctor has to say after you tell them how you feel, don't just go off your meds. Tell the doctor that you disagree with them and tell them why. Then, go get a second opinion from another doctor.
Often there are many different therapies available and another doctor's approach may work better for you. It's your treatment, and you are in charge.
Work with a doctor that will listen to you and respect your decisions about therapy and medication.
I hope you are feeling better soon!

All medications have side effects. I suggest that keep pursuing your hobbies and doing the things that u like more!!! Stop medication totally until the need for it comes up.

First, go to myspace.com/thedavezone and read my blog on how to relax.

Second, go to www.dianetics.org and go to a facility nearest you and get some processing - you won't believe how much better you feel.

just do ur best not to be compulsive and obssesive wat ever it is ur OCD about do it on perpose and look at it and dont make it better thats wat my mom does

I think trying perhaps a different medication,until you find one that is suitable for your needs,Some medications that are right for some,are totally wrong for another,yet the two people could have the same disorder,but have such a different chemical make-up that what works for one will not necessarily work for the other,I don't think it is a good idea to go off the med's completely,just talk to your doctor about your symptoms,and your feelings around this,and I think the 2 of you together will come up with a solution.

Your doc might still not be giving you the RIGHT meds.
Effexor is scary stuff, I agree. You should continue with the soul searching, though and decide if the medication is actually worse than the original problems. Definitely consult with your PsyDoc before dropping any of your meds! Withdrawal from some of them can be exceedingly dangerous.
A couple things to try are Aromatherapy (works wonders for me!) Meditation and Yoga are also extremely helpful, from what I've been told.
I'm also trying my hand at Gardening, these days and it seems to be very fulfilling.

Are you asking "Can I live a relatively normal life without medication or seeing a doctor?"

Wisest thing to do is get to your doctor and explain your current medication is giving you serious side effects. You need to understand that your disorders may take awhile to react positively to medication. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or change meds a few times to get the desired effect.

It's very important to communicate with your doctor. He or she can't help you unless you share your thoughts and concerns. Who knows your body more than you?

Explain what works for you and makes you calmer. Just like what you are asking here. Remember. If you are stopping your meds. Tell your doctor.

You disorders are like having a cold. they can come and go or linger for a long time. Sometimes you feel good and a lot of times you feel bad. It takes trial and error to manage them but they are very manageable and you can lead a productive life. Continue with professional help and be patient.

Good Luck, Be Happy!