fears of taking that first tablet

if you have a strong fear of taking the first tablet of a new med you can take it in the doctors waiting room, ask doc to give you the first tablet from a sample pack, then sit there for about 1 hour, if any severe side effect happens which is very unlikely, doc will be there.....

in general, dont read the reported side effect lists of prescription meds, or perhaps do read the reported side effects for asprin and non prescription cold meds, if you really want to be shocked

but then the side effects of alcahol and tobacco are worse again

I agree - very true. Everything has a side effect and if we thought about everything we took, we would be worrying constantly!

I had the same affliction with associating food and my anxiety attacks. For a long time everytime I would eat something I would feel a panic attack coming on and I would stop eating. It eventually led to being anorexic until I finally saw I had a problem and got treated for it. I did alot of damage to my body as a result and have complications to this day. But I am now at a good weight and am doing better. I also had a fear of taking meds for my anxiety which is why it took me so long to try anything. I eventually did try Effexor and it helped me greatly for about 3 years. Now I take Xanax as needed if I feel a bad panic attack coming on. But as far as associating eating with your anxiety attacks you just have to tell yourself it's all in your head...because it is. I know it's hard, it took me a long time to realise it. But maybe trying some medication wouldn't hurt, or some relaxation techniques work wonders as well. I know it's not much but just knowing that there are other people out there suffering from the same things every day can help. You will be in my thoughts. Peace to all.