Hi @lorraine59: you'll notice that I modified the title of this discussion to "Doctor wants me to taper off meds; I don't understand why" This title distinguishes the discussion from the other discussions about depression and anxiety, and will bring people into the conversation who have faced similar situations.

it sounds like you know if your heart that turning to alcohol is not a healthy or sustainable coping mechanism. You ask a very wise question: "why taper off this drug if it is working for you?" and really only your doctor can answer that question. I encourage you to make an appointment as soon as possible to discuss this with your doctor and let him know how you are feeling. Be honest and tell him the strategies that you are relying on to get you through this and that you don't like it. Keep asking questions until you understand why he thinks tapering off is important. Then work together to find a way to manage your anxiety that works for you. Are you able to make an appointment with him soon? Can you take someone with you to be a second set of ears?