Medication can help but it also creates dependency. As someone who have worked in a hospital for the past 5 years, I know what a person can become when their life depends on medication. I know it's incredibly difficult to let go but like your new doctor said, tapering off as you start to work on your anxiety with your own power will be the best medication there is. I suffered from SA for many years too (to the point that I couldn't leave my room and walk across the dorm to use the toilet). I hated myself and I was in so much agony conflicting between self-loving and self-hating. I became so sick and tired of feeling anxious all the time. So I decided it had to stop. I worked really hard everyday, trying one small thing at a time. I was glad I've become someone I am today.

I know you can do it. Give yourself a shot at a free life. Be brave and take that step. Cheers!