retrograde amnesia is a side effect of all benzos.
for longterm anxiety, klonopin might better for you. xanax is usually as needed.
I'm shocked that you were prescribed xanax for 9 years. I read that this medication is for temporary use, I think the pamphlet said 8 months at the very most. You need to have regular blood tests if you take it for too long and apparently it damages the liver.
When I took Xanax I felt sedated, and like you, was forgetful and fogged up. I decided that this was not the way that I wanted to live my life and stopped using it over time. I only used it for 6 months, twice a day, 0.5mg.
This medication is extremely addictive and I think you need to find a Doctor who is now going to help you get off this medication. You will experience all sorts of things when getting off, but don't give up and don't go back if you can help it.
Wow 9 years on xanax. My doctor has me on it to but she says I cant take it for years and years because people on it for a long time might get addicted to it or get memory lost and forgetful. If I were you I go to a doctor and have you weaned off them. That's not normal to have those effects. Hang in there. Hugs