Is it possible that certain cases of general anxiety disorder require mediction?

I was diagnosed General Anxiety Disorder about 12 years ago. I went to psychotherapy for about a year or so and they had put me on medication. The medication for the most part works wonderfully, there are certain times or situations where I’ll feel anxious but I believe that to be what person not diagnosed with General Anxiety Disorder would experience.

I believe the therapist had told me some people need to take these medications for life like a person with diabetes would take insulin.

I’ve experimented from time to time getting off my medication. I thought well I’ve learned certain ways of dealing with things, gotten more mature, etc…The withdrawal symptoms are severe but I’ve gotten off the meds at least twice. My anxiety returns with a vengeance and I become pretty unbearable to live with for myself or anyone around me.

Has anyone had a severe Anxiety disorder where you learned coping techniques that didn’t require you be on medicine? I’m fine being on medication but I just wonder if it sometimes stunts my creativity, drive or passions. I’d also be worried about causing myself irreparable damage due to chemicals. Overall I’m content using the medication if it’s the only way to have relief, I figure a shorter happier life is worth more than a long miserable life.