Hi,
How much Xanax do you take at one time? I just started taking Xanax and I have found I can't take more than .25 mg at a time or else I'm sleepy.
In your case, maybe a different drug such as a beta blocker like Inderal would be a better choice. I have never taken Inderal but from what I understand is blocks the physical reactions of anxiety such as sweating, heart palpitations, etc. I've heard it doesn't have the slowing down effect quite as much.