I do not necessarily suffer from panic attacks but seem to have a constant anxiety.  I wake up with it and "most days but not all the time"  it usually peaks between 1 and 4pm and many evenings I am anxiety free.  I have been diagnosed with having a predisposition for depression and in 1996 I was put on an antidepressant "Effexor" this worked to take away my depression and my anxiety.  (I also have a sister who suffers from depression, it also hit her at 46) After 412  years of taking the meds, due to the side effects I took myself off.  I came off them very slowly and did not recognize the signs of my depression returning.  After being completely off the meds for about 3 months I hit bottom and became suicidal. After a week in the hospital the week of September 11th.  My Dr. tried 3 different types of antidepressants with fewer side effects they either made me worse or did nothing at all.  I am now back on effexor, this seems to have helped my depression some what but the constant anxiety is still with me.  My Dr. has repeatedly said my anxiety is due to my depression.  I am now 51 have had a blood test done for meno, and told that I am not in menopause.  This seems odd to me because I feel that I have had a number of hot flashes and sweating from my scalp to my waist and on a number of occassions my son as asked my about my face being very red. Also my periods a very strange either they last 2-3 weeks or a day and a half.  Sorry to go on so long but what I was after was any information any one can give me that may help me get a handle on this anxiety, also is it possible that my doctor is wrong about menopause and is it possible that some of this anxiety is from menopause. I look forward to hearing from anyone who may have some input.Peggy

pmay....It is very possible that you are starting meno......Your symptoms sound like it anyway. ...Maybe you should get a second opinion....Yes....Meno can certainly cause anxiety.....Take Care, and I hope you feel better soon.....Sweetface

pmay-you can't always rely on labs. go by your symptoms, i'd say. kristee

Peggy,

I have had anxiety from too much estrogen or not enough progesterone.    I definitely think it can be related to hormone imbalances.    

I would stay with your antidepressants for depression and then try some natural things for your hormone balance perhaps.