I really feel I need some pharmaceutical assistance with anxiety right now. I am currently having specific, high stress events in my life. Are there meds I could take on a short term basis, or right before the high stress situations, to help me get through them?

I don't know much about meds. I was previously depressed, but with quality psychotherapy was able to beat depression some time ago without the help of meds. I do not feel depressed right now or in danger of slipping back into it. My main complaint is severe anxiety. This is coupled with sleep problems, but I am much more concerned about the waking time anxiety and getting through difficult situations I cannot avoid. I've heard people mention Xanax before. Is this for anxiety? Is there another med that is appropriate? Valium? Others? Would I take these meds right before the stressful events to help me calm down and make it through them? That is what I would like. To be more functional and calm during the high stress times, and to not be in such pain. Then when these events are over, I won't need the meds anymore.

I am going to see my family doctor on Tuesday. What should I ask for? What words should I say to her so that she will prescribe me something and not just tell me to "tough it out"? I really need help right now. I am not an addictive type personality and am generally drug-shy, so I'm sure I wouldn't become overly dependent on whatever is prescribed. In general, I have a high tolerance for pain, both physical and emotional, and wouldn't use the drugs to excess, only when I just couldn't cope. What words should I say to my doctor to convince her I really need some pharmaceutical help at this time?

I'm really worried she will just say "tough s**t" and not give me any help. I have never asked for meds before and am scared they will just turn me away. Does this happen often, or are they generally willing to help? I do not want to see a pdoc as they have long waiting lists and I need help now.

I do have some narcotics at home right now, vicodin. Would taking vicodin help me if they won't give me a prescription for a med to help with anxiety?