Ativan and xanax are antianxiolytics, but are extremely addictive. They work very well to quell anxiety but you build a tolerance that requires a higher dose in a very short period of time. Any good doctor will only prescribe these meds for short term use and will suggest you get some counselling help to learn how to control your anxiety. Long term that's your best bet…it seems if you are self talking already, that's a start. The antidepressant paxil is good for social anxiety and might be what you need. It's not addictive and I've seen it make a huge difference in a few of my friends lives who were becoming rather reclusive because of post menopausal anxiety. Best of luck to you.

Anti-anxiety medications, such as Ativan and other benzodiazapines are only going to help in the short term to calm you down and stop a panic attack. If you want a long term medicaton to prevent anxious feelings and panic then SSRI's such as Zoloft and Paxil are supposed to help. Yes, they are antidepressants, but are proven to help those that have anxiety disorders. Yes, some drugs do have multiple uses. Of course, you'll need to talk to your doctor and you'll also want to get into some form of therapy.

Have you ever taken yoga classes or any mind exercise that would help you to relax and say no to drugs!!! also, I need to ask you a question?