The Science Behind ‘Hangxiety' – The Effect of Alcohol on the Nervous System
Peter Graham, M.D.
| 3 min read
Peter T. Graham, M.D., is the clinical director for the Blue Care Network. He graduated from the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Dr. Graham is board certified in Family Medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He has been a Family Physician since 2001.
After a night of drinking, people may expect to experience headaches, an upset stomach or mind fog the next day. These are the physical effects of a hangover.
But there are other less-recognized hangover symptoms that impact the nervous system, such as irritability, trouble sleeping and feelings of paranoia, doom or gloom. Many people may feel increased anxiety after drinking. In slang terms, these types of symptoms are sometimes called “hangxiety.”
Alcohol’s strain on the brain
Alcohol-related anxiety happens because of the way the body metabolizes alcohol and the chemical changes that happen in the brain.
Alcohol acts as a depressant to numb the nervous system and dampen anxiety. When someone starts drinking, alcohol affects the brain’s GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors and makes them feel relaxed. Continued drinking impacts a neurotransmitter known as glutamate, which increases one’s sense of calm and lessens their inhibition.
But then the brain attempts to return to normal after the alcohol wears off and those chemicals kick back in. That’s where the anxiety-related feelings kick in.
Heavy drinking can also interrupt the regular cycle of cortisol levels in the body and keep it at higher levels. Cortisol regulates the body’s stress response. When alcohol wears off, cortisol levels change and the body feels withdrawal symptoms, which can create more stress.
What are the psychological factors of binge drinking?
After a bout of heavy drinking, people may feel regretful or embarrassed, particularly if they cannot clearly remember their activities from when they were inebriated. Others may worry about the effect of their behavior on others.
In addition, some people who have anxiety may find that they experience an increase in anxiety after drinking alcohol. An estimated 20% of people who have anxiety use alcohol as a coping mechanism, according to American Addiction Centers.
People may use alcohol to help them relieve stress, but in reality, they are just postponing that stress until the alcohol wears off. Once that happens, anxiety usually returns and it can feel worse than prior to drinking.
How to manage “hangxiety”
The best way to prevent alcohol-related anxiety is to abstain from consuming alcohol. However, for individuals who are experiencing “hangxiety,” these tips can help them manage the symptoms:
- Hydrate: drinking water helps the body and mind recover and relieve the dehydration that can occur after consuming alcohol.
- Rest: allow some down time for body and mind. Quiet activities, meditation or sleep all can help
- Stop drinking: do not drink more alcohol. This will only serve to delay the feelings of anxiety.
When to get help
For help with alcohol-related anxiety or other issues surrounding alcohol use, individuals can talk with their primary care provider as a first step. Providers can recommend medication, treatment and therapies specific to each of their patients’ needs.
Individuals also can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) help line at 1-800-662-HELP(4357) any time for free, confidential information and referrals.
Dr. Peter Graham is clinical director for the Blue Care Network. For more health tips and information, visit bcbsm.mibluedaily.com.
Image: Getty Images
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