I've had anxiety for years. I have tried many prescriptions but always felt like I wasn't really facing whatever is at the root of my problems. The second really bad bout of panic attacks I had I was given a couple of prescriptions, probably just like you. The first was a standard ssri, that can take several weeks to take effect, and then xanax for immediate relief. I straight up ask my doctor if my anxiety is the result of a chemical imbalance or a result of my deluded thought process. I was looking for real answers, as opposed to symptom relief. He told me it is a chemical imbalance causing my anxiety but I don't believe him since I can go years at a time without an episode. I told him this and his response was that I must have really good coping mechanisms. I don't think so. I hate ssri's. They make me feel NOTHING. The xanax is just as scary for me, because it gives relief but it is just a temporary place to hide. It is also highly addictive.
If you are having an extremely hard time, take your xanax and try not to feel bad. However, please know that it is only a temporary fix.
The only real relief I have found for my "chemical imbalance", aka anxiety, is immersion therapy. I repeatedly put myself in situations that make me uncomfortable to prove to myself that I will not die, I will only feel VERY uncomfortable. Good luck to you. Everyone is different. Don't feel guilty for trying to escape your hell. Do whatever makes you feel better. Do not feel guilt for escaping the feeling of anxiety, no matter how you manage to do this. I know it sucks but hang in there.