I'm no professional so I can't tell you how to go about taking medication.

What I can offer is my experience with medication. It sucks as I don't want to become dependent on my medication, but I've learned that I behave and perform more appropriately than when I've been off of them.

It was difficult for me to even register that my medication was taking affect so I keep updating with my family on a daily basis as to how they perceive my differences in my behavior and mentality. My mentality has always been to listen to my family's and therapists without bias which has lead me to see the differences in my own behavior. The struggle is determining whether its possible to function "normally" without them, which I have yet been be able to determine the possibility to do so as I have tried and failed.

I heard benzos are really tricky to be on, and then to ween off them but it's a slippery slope as you can become addicted to them without noticing first hand. I'd say to keep in touch with your doctors and your close ones and get their feedback as well. I know of some people on xanax and its definitely a struggle for them.

Again, take my reply with a grain of salt, I don't know how your body or mind reacts to prescription medication, but don't be too concerned with dependency if you trust your psychiatrist and followup with them regularly.

Thanks for sharing. I hope all the best to you!