Newbie: Situational Meds, SSRIs, or Supplements for Panic Disorder?

Hello!

I am new to this board but not to panic disorder. I have been having panic attacks for about 20 years; I treated them once before with 50mg Zoloft, when I was first diagnosed, but did not tolerate the medication well though it was very effective in stopping the panic attacks. I haven't taken SSRIs since then (about 18 years ago).

My panic attacks returned in 2009 and are tied to driving, specifically on highways and bridges, whether I am driving or (more recently) a passenger. I have tried acupuncture (made it worse), essential oils (made it worse), ativan (take only when flying - it makes me super groggy), therapy, square breathing and yoga. I avoid caffeine, don't drink or smoke.

Exercise and yoga DO help a little; square breathing helps a little, too. However, I'm still getting them, the frequency and severity are worsening lately, and I feel like I need to get this figured out.

1. Does anyone take supplements? Do they help? Any suggestions? I've been researching L-Theanine. I cannot take 5-HTP due to ulcerative colitis but open to other ideas.

2. Are there situational meds that might work, other than Ativan? I am reluctant to take an SSRI because I didn't tolerate them well in the past, the attacks are tied very specifically to highway driving, they aren't an everyday occurrence, and I thankfully do not have depression. Are there any other alternatives to SSRIs that I should try? Wellbutrin? Beta blockers? A benzo that's not as groggy-feeling as Ativan?

What else is working for people? Chamomile tea? Standing on your head howling at the moon? ;) I'm ready to try just about anything to get these fixed, but I am super resistant to SSRIs unless there's no other option.

Help, please. Thanks!

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Other medications: Remicade every 8 weeks; LoSeasonique

I have had success with l-thyene and chamomile capsules. kava is very effective but its safety is still in question but its by far the strongest anti anxiety supplement I have tried. stay away from benzos is my advice. emergency use only .

there is also buspar