thank you for your query. anxiety symptoms or panic attacks (characterised by flushing, palpitation, sweating, shortness of breath, sweating, tremulousness etc) can be a normal phenomenon in certain circumstances (like when missing a train or flight). however, if its occuring regularly, or without any reason, it may be a symptom of a psychiatric disorder, like phobia,panic disorder, anxiety, depression, etc. It may also be caused by any substance of abuse, like alcohol, marijuana, opioids etc. Moreover, ativan contains lorazepam, benzodiazepine (sedative, not an antidepressant), which has roughly the same effects in brain as alcohol. It also may give rise to dependence and tolerance, and chronic use is harmful for the liver. As I understand your problem, it appears that firstly, you have to find out about the frequency and quantity of his use of substances like marijuana, ativan etc. and decide if it needs treatment. Secondly you have to identify any underlying psychiatric disorder, that may be responsible for his panic attacks and/or his substance use (sometimes teenagers use substances to self medicate for an underlying psychiatric problem, which they themselves are often unaware of). I would suggest you to visit a psychiatrist for the proper evaluation, diagnosis and management of the above conditions. I would advice you not to be alarmed at this very moment, as these situations are very common in most teenage households, however, it would be a good idea to take help now from a professional to nip the problem in the bud thus preventing it from snowballing. hope i ve been able to answer your question. please feel to contact me for any further queries. best of luck.