I have pretty severe social anxiety. Doc prescribed lorazepam and fluoxetine. I flat out refuse to take an SSRI. I have read wonderful things about benzos, and know of their addictive nature.
Anyways, I tried the lorazepam (.5 mg) and went out with my friend. It did nothing. I only want to take a benzo before BAD social situations, not everyday. Upon the doc's consent, later, I took 1 mg. I think it helped a little, but I'm not sure. As of my fourth time trying it, I took 2 mg, and went out socially. I don't think it did much, as my heart could still race just as easily as before, and i was still pretty on edge, but I think it reduced my anxiety somewhat. I did not feel sedated at all (like if I was to take benadryl).
Is this normal? Would a different benzo matter? Obviously I'm going to ask psychiatrist, but I want some other opinions on the matter. I've heard for a long time of people taking them and losing practically all anxiety, which at extremely bad times could be a godsend.
Also, it is not nearly as effective as alcohol is to me either. Nearly all my social phobias are absolutely cured by a few drinks. So whats the case?