Afraid to get on meds

I deal with GAD, not formally diagnosed but my therapist recognized it in me before I had to stop going. It's been many many years and my anxiety is getting out of control. For example (an ongoing issue), I just started a new job (day 2 today) and my anxiety has been so bad the last two days that I've been sick and have only slept a combined total of 6 hours. The thing is, I know the reasons I'm so anxious about work, yet even with that knowledge I'm unable to curb my anxiety. Ive avoided meds for fear of side effects and difficulty paying for/getting them. But now its getting to a point where I feel I might need meds. However, I am worried that the side effects of anxiety meds will be too awful. I'm kind of just asking for peoples experiences with side effects of the meds. I dont know many people who have taken anything for their anxiety so I dont have anyone to really go to in real life for this. Please, even if you didnt have any negative side effects, share your experience if youre willing! Anything will help while I try to navigate this