In what ways will the medication help me? I'm afraid it will completely change who I am. Will I ever be able to have a drink with friends again? Can an SSRI actually reduce this feeling and is it possible to ever feel normal again?

I feel like I have the worst flu you could imagine 24/7. Mornings are just terrible though. I have so many things coming up in my life, and if it doesn't get better I won't be able to take advantage of them. I'm suffering, as I'm sure most people with anxiety are. It feels awfully physical, I just want some relief...

I don't want to "manage" this feeling. I'm fully able to control my reaction to it, but that doesn't change the fact that it is painful. Managing it doesnt cause it to leave, is that all medication does? Or can I actually feel relief...?

I'm terrified of antidepressants, withdrawal symptoms, and the way they affect brain chemestry. I know i'm nothing special when it comes to anxiety, but I cant take any more.