Artists, writers, and other creative people are some of our most sensitive people. Their sensitivity to our world helps them do their creative work. However, being highly sensitive comes with strengths and struggles.

Some people, including medical professionals, have found it tempting to romanticize mental health struggles and artistic temperament. After all, shouldn’t artists suffer for their art? (Answer: No.)

Some psychologists have conducted research hoping to find a connection between mental illness and creativity. Others have debunked this research as poorly executed and harmful to neurodivergent people.

Despite the research debates, one thing is certain: artists cannot create art when they are struggling with their mental health.

I interviewed novelist and visual artist Lauren Faulkenberry, who recently received a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder in her 40s, after decades of struggles. Her story shines a light on how anxiety harms creativity and what to do about it.

“Anxiety” is a catch-all term that refers to a variety of disorders recognized by the medical profession.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is “a chronic state of severe worry and tension.” People with GAD struggle with excessive worrying, insomnia, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and more.

Other types of anxiety disorders include panic disorder and social anxiety disorder.

But if you deal with anxiety in your daily life,........

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