I have significant panic attacks 3-4 times a year (predating my drinking). Ativan works great for me in the moment, but as an alcoholic, I don't trust myself to have it around -- it's too tempting to want to take it when I am just feeling anxious and not going into full panic mode. The resolution my doctor and I came to is that I am prescribed one single dose that I keep at home for a panic emergency. Once I take that, I have to go back to the doctor to get another one, so I don't have to worry about taking it too often. Hope this helps.
GG