Some years ago when I was having very frequent panic attacks and anxiety (when it all started), I was prescribed Xanax. There were periods of taking Xanax and periods when everything was quite OK. Finally, I do not have sudden anxiety and panic attacks without any reason. I don't know if Xanax helped but I am feeling better now, after some years (of course, sometimes I am really stressful about going by transport- especially planes- but it is another story, claustrophobic feeling). I know that Xanax does not cure cause of anxiety, it cures symptoms but still...I feel better now. And no side effects for me (or probably I am not able to see them :D).
So, if Xanax helps, why not?