Health Anxiety Medication

[lynchm]

Does anyone have suggestions on who would be best to prescribe anxiety medication? I have talked to my general Dr. before and although he is great, it seemed he didn't know much about anxiety. (At least how to best treat my particular symptoms) I am also in the process of looking for a counselor. I think combining both would give me the most success. I'm really worried about the side effects of medication. Does anyone take medication for severe health anxiety? What side effects do you experience? Is the benefit worth the side effects? Feeling a bit overwhelmed with this process. Thanks!

[Hidden]

Often there are good antidepressants that also help with anxiety. I still have panic attacks so was prescribed Klonipin on an as needed basis. It takes about 40 minutes for me to know it's working and the following day I just get dry mouth but no other side effects. I would recommend seeing a psychiatrist AND a counselor. But I used to have a nurse practitioner (has ability to prescribe medicines) who was also my counselor, I wound up in hospital and it was that doctor/ psychiatrist who listened and helped me choose from a list she had based on major side effects. I still see a psychiatrist that is covered by insurance with a copay of $30 and she sees me for about 15 minutes - so I recommend working with counselor to identify major anxiety symptoms and problems/concerns I should share. Best wishes! Look forward to seeing you post more.