Let me share my recent experience. I have been on Ativan which is in the same family as Xanax for over two years. I have very bad anxiety, shaking, racing thoughts, panic attacks, etc. Also Migraines and lots of muscle tension. My doctor and I had been talking about getting me off of the benzodiazepine because of its addictive quality and long term side effects. I was noticing that I couldn't remember things and had trouble learning new things at work. It felt like I had to relearn everything when I didn't take the medication. I knew this wasn't the answer and taking it was dangerous - but the anxiety was so debilitating that I was willing to deal with the consequences. Through the help of my doctor, support groups, and alternative therapy I finally was at a place where I was willing to go off the Ativan. My doctor wanted me to detox in a hospital, which I didn't do. I also went off of it pretty much cold turkey which I do not recommend. Headaches, panic attacks, body weakness, all the things you are talking about I felt. I'm not trying to scare you but I know how you are feeling and think it is a result of being addicted. They say that any medication taken for even a short time is physically addictive. It's not your fault it's just what your body does. I also think it is common to become emotionally dependent especially on tranquilizers. Benzodiazepines are among the most addictive and abused medication and also one of the worst detoxes.
Hang in there and talk to your doctor about alternatives and weaning off. I hope this helps you understand what you are going through is "normal."
Lisa (scooterb)