For some context, I have diagnosed C-PTSD, Bipolar Type 1 (mixed), anxiety, and ADHD. I recently had a nervous breakdown from an extended period of being off my meds plus unresolved trauma stuff creeping up in a major way. I was prescribed .5 mg clonazepam (klonopin) by my doctor to get me through what I was experiencing as constant panic and hyperarousal. 

My doctor and my practice in general is very hesitant to prescribe benzos for obvious reasons (risk of addiction plus bad longterm side effects), but in combination with my Latuda, Lamotrigine, and Adderall, I'm finding it to be a lifesaver.

It's been super helpful in conjunction with my stimulants so that I can focus and get things done without my manic brain getting all worked up and triggering psychosis (which has been a big issue for me in the past). It also allows me to work through my C-PTSD with a calm and grounded mind and reduces my fear - which before prevented me from even leaving my house much. It's been infinitely easier to turn to and maintain healthy coping mechanisms/self care since I started.

My problem is that I have internalized shame about taking it because it has such a bad rap. And I'm worried that by telling my doctor how well it's working, he'll be suspicious of me. Is it really as "bad" as they say? How do I go about this with my doctor, who presented this as a short-term strategy? Is taking it daily going to destroy my brain?

As of right now, I've had zero desire to abuse it, and I've been on it for a few weeks. I don't see myself being tempted to do so. I'm taking it as prescribed or, more often, less/not at all, never more. For what that's worth.

Anyone have some advice/reassurance on this? Thanks!