I understand exactly what you're talking about! I stopped smoking four and a half years ago after 43 years of a two pack a day addiction. I have always had a high-strung personality and probably self-medicated with the nicotine. When I quit smoking my anxiety went through the roof!
I could not sleep but two hours at a time through-out the night. Up and down all night long. I would have terrible anger, then remorse. Sadness and a sense of loss filled my days. Talk about mood swings!
I think the suggestion to go to your doc and see about meds to help you through is a good idea if you feel that's the right way to go. I didn't want to take meds as I had had a bad experience with Ativan in the past. That's just me. I just lived through the misery. I tried to occupy myself and as a praying person...I prayed a lot...all the time. I tried to eat healthy and did take a benadryl to help me sleep.
I wish I could help you, but all I can do is share my experience with you. I want to let you know that you're not alone. It took at least a year for me to really feel "normal". It may not take that long for you...everyone is different. I still have a high-strung personality but I no longer have panic attacks and extreme anxiety. I sleep six hours per night now with an ocassional sleepless night. It does get better!
Take care and do what you need to do to get through. Joni