Thanks CLKD, I did wonder about Valium being more suitable. Like Honeybun, I know your name well - have read loads of your posts re anxiety, and thanks a lot because you have helped me even when you didn't know you had! Yes I agree, debilitating is the right word, when they come I go very strange, like a rabbit caught in the headlights, can't move, speak to anyone or eat, stomach clenches into a tight knot, feel like I'm going totally mad, and can't move! Just sit frozen staring ahead. Even going upstairs to the loo seems impossible. Even when I tell myself it's hormones, it doesn't make any difference, the terror sets in and I can't get out of it. How on earth you coped aged 3 I will never know! Thanks so much for the welcome, and yes, I am going to ask doc about valium as it does seem more appropriate.