I started being prescribed benzos when I was 18 and stayed on them until 7 months ago. I'm 36. I believed that I "needed" them. I didn't and I don't. They were brutal to come off of, but I suffer from addiction. To ALL substances. My disease manifests itself into other areas of my life. Drugs, alcohol, sex, relationships, shopping..whatever.
I was fortunate to have a counselor in recovery who told me, "Jennifer..anxiety is only fear of judgment." Anytime I felt or feel anxious, I repeat that phrase in my head and look at what I'm afraid of. It helps me so much.
Good luck to you!!