I have taken 2.5 mg of xanax (alprazolam) nightly for several years for sleep. i wish to stop using . will withdrawal be difficult ?

Yes: Can be very difficult. Do NOT stop suddenly ,Suggest you see a psychiatrist MD knowlegable in addiction medicine, who can help you taper off. People in your age group frequently develop memory or other cognitive problems during the daytime that they may not even be aware of. They notice that their thinking becomes much clearer off the drug. Hope this is helpful for you.