I really do think that if someone is suffering with anxiety then the appropriate medication should be tried. Regardless of causation, unless the woman is absolutely certain that hormones are the reason. Some ladies find that taking the AD most likely to help anxiety as well as HRT really useful.
How was your anxiety during your menstruating years? During my teenage years I had 3 weeks feeling well, B4 the night before a bleed, even if a period wasn't due, I would sob. My periods would be heavy and painful++, lasting for 10 days. For years I was 10 days bleeding, my cycle was 32 days .......... it was 'normal' for me and I didn't know any different.
Eating correctly can help ease anxiety surges. NAPS advised me to eat every 3 hours, even through the night. 24/7. Because hormones can burn off energy which may induce anxiety. Even now I graze, as well as eating 3 meals a day. DH is the Chef ;-).
Having suffered panic attacks since the age of 3, the various intermittent medications when required, have kept me ticking over . I also suffer depression so ADs keep me alive.
It can be difficult to find a regime initially and tiring trying different medications. It is however, usually worth while pushing through ;-).