Haven't been getting good sleep for the past few days, anxiety is very bad, everything seems like a dream, talked to therapist and er told me to take ativan (lorazepam) amd sleep. very nervous about taking it.

Need evaluation!: You need a workup for the cause of your anxiety. Do you drink caffeine, coffee, or other energy drinks? Do you smoke? All can lead to anxiety and insomnia. I am worried you have either a thyroid condition, manic depression, panic attacks, or severe depression. You need to see an excellent primary care MD or go to your behavioral health Emergency Room for a full competent evaluation.

Therapy?: Have you yet tried any form of psychotherapy? Typically, the optimal combination of things to treat emotional issues such as anxiety as you describe depression is medication (which, on your best day, is supposed to take the edge off symptoms) but the real gruntwork takes place in psychotherapist's consulting room.

Sleep is critical: Sleep is a must for dealing with anything. Since you're talking with a therapist, I hope you're working on finding the underlying reasons for your anxiety and developing coping tools for managing it. Ativan (lorazepam) is a commonly prescribed anxiolytic, has a short half-life (4 hours or so) and is user-friendly for most. However, there are other meds you could try if you're nervous about this one.

Anxiety about: taking medication is understandable, especially in one prone to anxiety. Please follow doc's orders but add some self-help techniques to empower you. See www.relaxationresponse.org for some training. Peace and good health.

Therapy: Perhaps you need to speak with your therapist about getting a relaxation technique, using meditation, or starting an exercise program. Extra therapy may be needed to source out your anxiety.

Anxiety: Is there a sudden onset or sudden increase in anxiety and insomnia If so you should have an assessment to determine what may have caused it.Hypnotics (ambien,lunesta) and benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, (alprazolam) Klonopin) can be short term helpful but not the long term answer.They are safe if used as prescribed and don't drive right after taking.Short term as needed use will not produce dependency.Can help

Sounds a little like: derealization, which is usually an indicator of very strong anxiety, if not of other things (drug problems, psychosis, etc.). Ativan (lorazepam) will help with sleep but is a short-term solution. Watch for dependence. Meanwhile, consult a mental health pro for the anxiety, and a masseuse for those tight muscles around the neck and shoulders. http://www.psychologyproductsandservices.com/page2.html

Ativan Rx by doc ok: Ativan by itself is a safe medication. You should not mix with alcohol or drugs or other meds unless you discuss with your treating physician You and your therapist perhaps with a psychiatric consultation need to figure out what is happening with your anxiety and dream state you are describing.