I understand the intense feelings of desperation that panic attacks can create. Once in a while, I have repeated panic attacks that can last for several days. I've never been a drinker, my life isn't stressful, though I was an anxious child of an alcoholic. I remember being so afraid that my anxiety would return, that I avoided everything from coffee to multivitamins and calcium antacids -- but it was futile.
Antidepressants have helped me with everyday (mild) anxiety, but it has not stopped the massive episodes. I know that when my body is shaking, I'm having trouble breathing, lots of crying spells, and feeling horribly bewildered (for days) -- it's impossible to read my self-help books, or meditate, and of course I try walks, jogs, warm baths, soothing scenery etc. It is maddening to seek relief and not find it. But I have learned these episodes do pass (if it gets bad enough, i go to the hospital and the few benzos I get prescribed bring relief).