I've been addicted to benzos before: xanax, valium, ativan and klonopin. They were originally prescribed for severe anxiety. Years later after getting off of them, I was put on Valium again and I did really well taking it as prescribed for the 2 years I was on it. I have a long history of addiction with many things (heroin, crack, pain pills and alcohol), so it was very hard but I did it. Now since moving to another state, no dr. will prescribe them b/c it's not in their policy so I have untreated panic attacks/anxiety.

On another note, I have an addiction to pain pills and I struggle with this because I live with chronic pain and am prescribed narcotics for this pain. It's the only way I am able to get out of bed and halfway function although they barely stratch the surface of the insane pain. So I have my husband hold onto them and hand them out every morning to help prevent me from abusing them. Perhaps you have someone in your life that could help you, if you are feeling unsure?

They can be very helpful and wonderful for treatment of anxiety, you just have to be careful. You just have to honest with yourself and with your dr. Best of luck to you

-Jess