I haven't taken Ativan myself, but have heard quite a few good reviews about it. It seems for most people it either works or it doesn't, not a whole lot of middle ground. It's not a great long-term solution though, as people develop a tolerance to it pretty quick, and often need to increase the dose considerably for it to stay functional. Because of this, it often seems to get prescribed as a supplement to another med (kindof like xanax usually does). Sorry I don't have first hand experience with this one, and don't know about withdrawal symptoms from starting or stopping it either.

I have taken ativan for anxiety and it seems to work just fine for me along with prozac. Took it 13 years ago for anxiety and stopped it after 6 months when I felt well again. Now 13 years later am having anxiety again and am on it again with good results.

Hi.. i am prescribed ativan but i don't take it everyday.. my doc said i could and it would help me more but i am stubborn and only take it when my anxiety and ocd is out of control and i get really really overwhelmed or anxious or have an attack and can't seem to calm down.. i also took it the week of my aunt's funeral a few weeks ago to help me relax and fall asleep b/c i was so tense and worked up... it works for me.. i take a very small amount but its enough to calm me down and stop the racing thoughts.. hope that helps you