Anxiety associated with hangovers: An exploration of 'hangxiety'
In the world of socialising and indulgence, the aftermath of a night of drinking often brings about a less desirable experience - the hangover. But for some, the symptoms extend beyond the physical discomfort, with anxiety becoming a prominent feature. This phenomenon, known as 'hangxiety', has been a subject of increasing interest in the scientific community.
Hangxiety is not a new concept, but its complexities are only beginning to unravel. A multitude of factors contribute to its development, including neurotransmitter imbalances, disrupted sleep architecture, and psychological factors.
Neurotransmitter changes, particularly a drop in GABA (an inhibitory neurotransmitter) and a surge in glutamate (an excitatory neurotransmitter), peak about 24 hours after drinking, contributing to anxiety symptoms. Prolonged activation of the sympathetic nervous system, or the 'fight or flight' response, during withdrawal not only causes psychological anxiety but also triggers cardiovascular changes that can exacerbate anxiety after drinking.
Disrupted sleep architecture, especially loss of REM sleep, which is crucial for emotional regulation, post-drinking increases cortisol sensitivity, impairing emotional control and intensifying anxiety. Low dopamine levels the day after drinking also impair the brain’s ability to regulate anxiety.
Psychological factors such as feelings of embarrassment or worry about actions taken while intoxicated or experiences of memory lapses the next day, elevate anxiety. Genetics, including gene variants affecting alcohol metabolism enzymes, influence sensitivity to alcohol’s toxic effects and thus the severity of hangxiety.
Sex and age differences also play a role, with women and older adults often experiencing stronger effects due to biological factors like body composition and enzyme levels. Pre-existing high anxiety or negative emotional states increase vulnerability to hangxiety. Behavioural factors, such as drinking quickly without eating, can raise blood alcohol concentration rapidly and increase hangover and anxiety severity, while eating protein, fat, and fiber with alcohol can reduce risk.
Research suggests that people with social anxiety disorder are more likely to display signs of alcohol dependence or abuse. A 2019 study found a potential link between shyness, alcohol consumption, alcohol use disorder, and anxiety.
Interestingly, alcohol may initially decrease anxiety among shy individuals, but the next day they report more intense anxiety. Anxiety from a hangover is usually not long-lasting but may persist for up to 14 hours in some cases.
Preventing hangxiety may involve drinking plenty of water during and after alcohol consumption, avoiding stimulants, drinking only with trusted friends, and avoiding situations that may lead to regrettable behaviour. Keeping a log of anxiety episodes following drinking may help determine whether certain situations or quantities of alcohol cause anxiety.
Deep breathing, meditation, and resting can help manage hangover anxiety for some people. However, for those struggling with alcohol use disorder or pre-existing anxiety disorders, professional help may be necessary to manage the symptoms effectively.
In conclusion, hangxiety arises from a complex interaction of biological, physiological, and psychological factors, combined with drinking behaviour. Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and seek help when needed.
- The complexities of hangxiety, a phenomenon that causes anxiety after a night of drinking, are being increasingly studied in the scientific community.
- The surge in glutamate and drop in GABA neurotransmitters, peaking about 24 hours after alcohol use, contribute to anxiety symptoms.
- Disrupted sleep architecture, particularly loss of REM sleep, post-drinking increases cortisol sensitivity, impairing emotional control and intensifying anxiety.
- Women and older adults often experience stronger effects of hangxiety due to biological factors like body composition and enzyme levels.
- Pre-existing high anxiety or negative emotional states increase vulnerability to hangxiety.
- Behavioural factors, such as drinking quickly without eating, can raise the severity of hangover and anxiety symptoms.
- For those struggling with alcohol use disorder or pre-existing anxiety disorders, professional help may be necessary to manage the symptoms effectively.
