If it's happening constantly as you say, you should really see professional help. I have been dealing with anxiety (social) for as long as I can remember. Today I saw a doctor and got put on medication for the first time. I have yet to see any results, but the doctor explained it to me pretty well. I need to be on these pills for 6 months and the results should become permanent.
There are other types of pills (stronger) that are used to treat severe depression and anxiety and those are the ones that can become addictive. Talk to your doctor to find out the best thing to do for your specific case. I have been putting it off for months, and today I finally caved. Hopefully this will result in a better quality of life for me.
The doctor also said if the pills aren't helping after a month that I should see a psychiatrist and start CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy) to help me cope.
Good luck.