Alcohol Effect: Genes influence how the body processes alcohol, and physical symptoms like headaches and dehydration may be more intense for some individuals, contributing to anxiety.
You’ve had a fantastic night out with friends and enjoyed a few drinks, but the next morning, anxiety creeps in—your heart races, and you feel unsettled. About 22% of people experience “hangxiety,” or hangover anxiety. For some, it’s mild, while others endure waves of intense anxiety. What causes this, and what can be done about it?
Alcohol Effect, Blair Aitken, a psychopharmacology researcher, and Rebecca Rothman, a clinical psychology researcher from Swinburne University of Technology, address these questions in an article published on The Conversation.
Alcohol Effect; How Does Alcohol Affect The Brain?
Alcohol Effect, A hangover is the body’s response to recovering from alcohol, marked by a series of symptoms.
Dehydration and disrupted sleep significantly contribute to the headaches and nausea that follow drinking. However, a hangover isn’t purely physical—it also has psychological effects.
Alcohol And The Nervous System
Alcohol Effect, Alcohol is a nervous system depressant, meaning it alters the function of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
It increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a calming neurotransmitter, which helps you relax.
It reduces glutamate, slowing down your thoughts and creating a more tranquil state.
These changes collectively affect mood, emotions, and alertness. That’s why alcohol often makes people feel more sociable and less defensive.
As alcohol wears off, the brain works to rebalance these chemicals:
GABA Decreases
Alcohol Effect, Glutamate increases, leading to heightened brain activity.
This rebound effect can result in feelings of anxiety, making the brain more excitable and agitated.
Why Do Some People Get Anxious While Others Don’t?
There’s no clear-cut answer, as multiple factors contribute to this.
The Role Of Genetics
Alcohol Effect, For some, a hangover depends on how much they drank and their hydration levels. However, genetics can also play a significant role.
Research shows that genes influence how the body metabolizes alcohol. Symptoms like headaches and dehydration may be more severe in some individuals, and these stronger physical effects can, in turn, trigger anxiety.
Do You Remember What You Said?
Alcohol Effect, One of the most common causes of anxiety is reflecting on actions taken while drinking.
Imagine not being able to recall exactly what you said or did. Perhaps you acted in a way you now regret or feel embarrassed about. Dwelling on these thoughts can trap you in a cycle of worry and rumination, which exacerbates anxiety.
Alcohol Effect, Research also indicates that people who struggle with anxiety in their daily lives are more vulnerable to hangover anxiety.
How To Prevent Hangover Anxiety
The best way to avoid hangover anxiety is to limit alcohol consumption.
It’s recommended to have no more than 10 drinks per week and 4 drinks per day.
In general, the more you drink, the more severe your hangover symptoms, and the worse you’ll feel.
Mixing alcohol with other substances, especially psychoactive drugs, can also heighten anxiety.
If You Wake Up Feeling Anxious
Focus on Physical Recovery
Drink plenty of water.
Eat light meals.
Allow yourself time to rest.
Practice Mindfulness and Deep Breathing
Alcohol Effect, Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help calm the mind, especially if anxiety keeps you awake or your thoughts feel scattered.
Journal Your Thoughts
Alcohol Effect, Writing down your worries can help you process them, organize your feelings, and cultivate self-compassion.
Talk To A Close Friend
Alcohol Effect, Sharing your concerns with someone you trust provides a safe space to express your feelings and reduces the sense of isolation.
By taking these steps, you can help mitigate hangover-related anxiety and start feeling better faster.
Also Read:
Top 5 Effective Ways To Prevent Heart Disease: Key Lifestyle And Health Strategies
Men Health: Navigating Unique Challenges And Wellness Across Life Stages
The Science Behind Longevity: Habits That Can Extend Your Life
Premature Aging Causes: Five Hidden Factors In Everyday Life That Accelerate Aging
