Hi alanism,
I can suffer from anxiety also and it can become a walk down a very bumpy lane. What works for some may not work for you. It may take a trial and error period to see what helps. Some years ago, I was put on Prozac which did help but I had to decrease the dose as I was working and it made me feel tired. I eventually weaned off of it.
I am probably going to be the exception here but I have been taking Xanax daily for probably 10 years. Anxiety reared it's ugly head when I was/am having health issues and still had to deal with other fami,y responsibilities. My original prescription was .5 mg 3 X daily. I seldom took that much. For a long time, I was taking 1/2 pill at bed time, which didn't do much, but Instill do. I am sure I have built up a tolerance to it. Sometimes, if I feel anxious during the day, ir I am going to be in a situation that might make me uncomfortable, I will take 1/2 pill. There have been times where I need some medical procedure done, last being an MRI, I will take a whole one before. Let me add, I "always" check with the doctors first to make sure that is ok to do.
Usually, my prescription for a month's supply, lasts me 2 - 2 1/2 months. There are no refills so my doctor can see I am not abusing this med. All my doctors know I take this and how long I have been on it and none of them have suggested I stop it. They know I am under a lot of stress and this takes the edge off. I am in no way saying this is right or wrong. This is only "my" experience with this med. Always go in the recommendation of your doctor.
If you feel anxious, take a half a pill and lay down for a while, if you are able to do that. Sit down and count to 4 and take a slow, deep breath in. Hold it and count to 4. Exhale slowly and count to 4. My accupuncture Doctor suggested this and it really does help me and I can do it anywhere.
You can make yourself anxious just from feeling anxious!
One step at a time. You CAN do this. 👍