Hello. I'm new here and still finding my way around. Hoping someone has had a similar experience or general info on my issue.

I've been on Effexor for almost 14 yrs. (other meds tried but didn't work as well) and Clonazepam for over 2 years. I also take HRT. About a year ago I started having terrible anxiety & panic attacks. YES...my life has been hell for quite some time now but I'm finding the anxiety to be so overwhelming I can barely function most days. I am getting help through Comm. Mental Health as I cannot afford other health care. I know I must be addicted to The Clonazepam by now..I can't get through a day without it! What I'm wondering is whether this 'addiction' is just getting worse and I need a higher dosage to keep the anxity at bay? I don't want to take it AT ALL!! The thought of increasing the dosage makes me even more anxious. Just WHAT is this stuff and HOW in the world am I ever going to be able to get off of it?? Any help, suggestions, comments, etc. are SO welcomed!

Thank you,
anneeg