Thanks, Juliana. I mostly think of it as a comfort thing, there if I need it. It might make it more possible for me to attempt some things I'm more panicky about. I've never flown in an airplane, and my plan is to take one of those "Fear of Flying" courses before I ever do (if I do), but I would still be anxious, so it would be comforting to know the medication is there if I need it. He only gave me seven or eight pills, which is fine with me.

Thanks for the suggestion about watching my behavior. I have never abused drugs, don't like side effects like feeling "out of it" as you describe, so I don't think I'd have a problem with Ativan. Knowing it can be addictive is good, because it means I know to watch out for any signs of addiction.