Two years ago, I stopped having my period and was all at once consumed with the worst anxiety, hot flashes, and panic attacks. Until then I went along happily dealing with whatever life through my way but as soon as I stopped having a period I was a scared, shaking, mess. I really didn't know for sure what was happening until I started researching the symptoms of menopause. I went to the ER six times, thinking I was having a heart attack. I finally was put on Lexapro but was unable to take it. Zoloft was next I was not able to sleep for three days on it. Finally, my GP doctor prescribed Cymbalta 30mg...I did experience some initial side effects when I started it but I stuck it out and the anxiety and panic attacks came to an end. I stayed on it for a year and weaned myself slowly off the Cymbalta last year. I did fine until this past two months...when the anxiety started again...helped along I guess my the death of my father in April. I have again been having some awful anxiety and panic attacks. I finally went to my doctor who prescribed venlafaxine 37.5 mg. Only been taking for two weeks and still anxious at times. Hoping this will help even though I hate having to take an antidepressant. I feel so alone in this. I hope maybe I can be a help to someone else.