Vix, speak for yourself because I'm working for my cure now.

Each of us need a treatment plan as unique as ourselves. For years I suffered needlessly without medication, because of fear or a feeling of 'failure'; a type of giving in. All the great tools mentioned such as exercise, deep breathing, relaxation techniques, etc couldn't help; until those anxiety levels came down. The anxiety levels wouldn't come down, because of the depression, OCD and daily panic I was experiencing. Thankfully, I don't need to take any xanax; though I keep some handy as a 'security'. And thankfully, my anxiety can now be controlled by those natural things. Though it may take some time to get off the anti-depressants. Don't be hard on yourself if you use the medications. It's just another tool in your recovery.

I've been going without meds for sooo long, but I've grown so weary of my worsening symptoms. My family members have been hinting for years that I should seek some help, but it really became clear to me that I needed medical intervention when I started locking myself indoors for the 4th year in a row and was afraid to even go to the doctor.

All of this has also started to affect my health, and I have recently been diagnosed with IBS. I guess what I'm trying to say is--sometimes we need a little bit of help to get back on track.

I'm meds free. I have a terrible doctor phobia. I'm considering getting the guts up to see one about my anxiety. Sometimes I take herbs. Kava helps take the edge off. I've had some success with St. John's Wort. Exercising on a regular basis definitely helps, as well as taking regular breaks and alone time when needed. Sometimes journaling can help. And laugh whenever possible. It helps raise the feel good chemicals in your brain. Try to eat healthy and drink lots of water. It's a constant battle but all of those things can help keep it in under control to degree. It doesn't fix things, but it helps it from getting worse. Also, try taking up a regular yoga pracice. Avoid alcohol. Try to develop a daily routine for yourself. Ummm...that's all I can think of for now. Good luck. It's a tough road we have, but never stop trying.