I was on clonazepam ( a benzo) continuously for over a year in 2000. I needed it to settle my body so I could sleep without shaking. I cold turkey switched to gabapentin. No problem.

Continuing the anxiety can be worse than any problem from benzos. I am not a pusher of benzos but when they are needed, they can be a big help.

I was on citalopram for a year too. IMO benzos are better than an SSRI, especially if you can take the benzos ONLY when you need them. SSRI's must be taken continuously to get any benefit. I just finished getting off the citalopram 2 weeks ago. The side effects of citalopram are much worse than clonazepam. I was on clonazepam for the month that I started the citalopram while the citalopram took effect. I stopped it cold turkey that time, too. No problems.

Why do you have so much anxiety about taking meds ?

Are you taking a vitamin and supplement regimen ?