What is a potential long-term effect of untreated anxiety?

Untreated anxiety can lead to a range of negative outcomes, one of which is substance abuse. When individuals experience persistent anxiety without receiving appropriate treatment, they may turn to alcohol or drugs as a means of self-medication to alleviate their discomfort. This coping mechanism often leads to a cycle of dependence, where the temporary relief provided by substances can ultimately exacerbate anxiety symptoms, creating further distress. Over time, substance abuse can not only fail to address the underlying anxiety but also introduce additional health issues and hinder social and occupational functioning.

In contrast, the other potential outcomes listed do not typically arise from untreated anxiety. For instance, improved relationships and increased productivity are often associated with effective anxiety management, rather than a lack of treatment. Similarly, enhanced coping skills are usually developed in response to learning how to manage anxiety effectively, rather than through the experience of untreated symptoms. Therefore, substance abuse stands out as a significant and concerning long-term effect of untreated anxiety.