You might be surprised by the number of people who suffer from anxiety disorders - they're right up there with (and often accompanied by) depressive disorders, which are also extremely common.
Your concerns regarding drugs are valid, particularly since your symptoms appear to be developing into more of a chronic condition than a transient one, and antianxiety medication can be addictive and produce bad side-effects over the long term.
You should consider asking your doctor for a referral to a psychiatrist/psychologist, who could perhaps help you in developing cognitive techniques and lifestyle changes that will improve your condition without reliance upon medication. You can probably start on your own by reducing your intake of psychostimulants (particularly caffeine) and trying simple deep breathing and breath-control exercises, but you should be seeking professional assistance with this condition before it becomes pervasive in your life. Be aware that your GP is not likely to have extensive expertise in anxiety disorders, and his/her first response will almost always be to prescribe medication, which may not be ideal for you in the long term.
Of course, you should take this with a grain of salt: the advice your doctor can give you is likely better than what you'll get from a fellow neurotic on a hockey board.
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