I was in the same boat. I was on 2 to 3 mg's xanax for 5 years, mostly taken at night to sleep. I was drinking as well. Stopeed cold turkey, now 4 weks later Im through the really bad bits. It ws shocking, I thought I would die or fit. Electric shocks running through me, involuntary movements/jerking I couldn't control. I never ever want to go through that again. I started on Effexor too, 3 weeks before I stopped Xanax and stopped because it was making me even more anxious. I am still struggling with dreadful insomnia and teeth clenching and now pain through my jaw. I wear a mouthguard to bed to try and help relieve the pain.Im still a wreck with hot and cold fevers but %1000 better than the first two weeks so hang in there and believe you can do it. Stay positive and visualise yourself chemical free and happy. I have now given up alcohol too and will face a new lot of demons
Keep going?