[Razzleberry]

I mentioned my social anxiety to my new psych nurse, and also mentioned that I'm studying for a really huge exam (the CPA exam) this summer.

My social anxiety is not a huge problem - my other issues (depression, maybe Bipolar or BPD) are what are really bad. The social stuff just means I'm really shy & have no friends, but it's not otherwise a big deal.

She offered me some Xanax to take before my CPA exam to help "calm my nerves" for the test.

Is it unethical for me to take an anti-anxiety before the CPA exam? Would that give me an unfair advantage over other people taking the test?

[Fuzzybear]

Personally I think it wouldn't be unethical as you have social anxiety and other mental health issues

[RozG]

i don't see how it can be unethical, it's just giving yourself a fair chance.

besides, i'm sure others taking the exam will be taking medications for various things?

[salukigirl]

In my zoology class were studying the Class Insecta right now. There is a girl in my class who has a severe phobia of bugs. All of them. She couldn't stay in the lab because she started hyperventilating. She went to her doctor asking for anti-anxiety meds for before the lab practical because she wouldn't be able to handle it. it wouldn't be giving you an unfair advantage, it would be putting you on the same level as everyone else.

[(JD)]

I would be sure of how it affects you in the same dosage you are planning to take it though, as if you haven't tried it before, it may give you effects you can't deal with for a test. Good wishes!

[Razzleberry]

The first part isn't till May, then another section in July. I did take another anti-anxiety a couple years ago, not very often, but a few times.

I dunno...I guess it could help.

[KathyM]

I wouldn't worry about having an unfair advantage - just be sure the medication won't interfere with your comprehension during the exam. It would really suck to be all chilled out for the exam, only to find out you don't understand any of the questions. That wouldn't fall into the "advantage" category. Go ahead and smack me if I've added to your anxiety.

What about yoga or meditation? Maybe not for the exam in May, but for anxiety issues in the future? There are no harmful side effects, and it's non-narcotic.

[Perna]

I don't see how you would have an unfair advantage; you imply others are going to be anxious instead of just taking a test which students do all the time. Not everyone has trouble taking tests. It isn't going to "add" anything to how well you studied or your memory or anything. Some people actually do better under pressure.

[gimmeice]

I agree with what everybody has posted.
((((((((((Razzleberry)))))))))))

[Brian37]

take it

from what ive heard the CPA exam is a killer

[splitimage]

Nothing wrong with anti-anxiety meds. Just make sure you try it out before test day, so that you'll know how it affects you. It really knocks some people out, which is the last thing you need on exam day. In a broader sense, I've found therapy particularly challenging some of my core beliefs about myself, has helped my social anxiety way more than meds have. I do take anti-anxiety meds, for GAD, but for my social anxiety - therapy has helped way more.

good luck both with the anxiety and the exams.

--splitimage

[TaintedGoth1]

I don't see how it would be unethical...I mean you'd take insulin if you were in a diabetic shock wouldn't you? I figure it's the same thing.