Jack comments on Open Thread: October 2009 - Less Wrong

5 Post author: gwern 01 October 2009 12:49PM

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Comment author: PeerInfinity 07 October 2009 05:23:36PM *  1 point [-]

I'm surprised that noone gave the obvious answer yet, which is:

If overcoming the problem really is hopeless, then give up and focus on more productive things, otherwise keep trying.

If it isn't obvious whether it's hopeless or not, then do a more detailed cost/benefit analysis.

Still, I don't remember seeing any LW post that even mentioned that sometimes giving up is an acceptable option. Or maybe I just forgot, or didn't notice.

Comment author: Jack 07 October 2009 07:58:16PM *  1 point [-]

This is random and for all sorts of reasons possibly a bad idea- but have you ever thought about anti-anxiety medication? It might have side effects that turn you off of it but it could help you deal with high risk situations.

(I should disclaim: I'm not a doctor, my knowledge doesn't extend past personal experience and a cog sci minor. Obviously, not medical advice, etc.)