Feeling anxious after drinking? Experts explain reason behind 'hangxiety'

If you have experienced a feeling of dread and anxiety the next morning after you had a great time at a night out, you are not alone. Around 22 per cent of social drinkers experience this feeling called hangover anxiety or ‘hangxiety’.

While for some, it may be just mild jitters, for others, it may be an overwhelming feeling of dread and panic, making them unable to relax. Science can explain why, according to The Conversation.

What effect does alcohol have on our brains?

It is known that drinking may result in a hangover leading to symptoms like dehydration, disrupted sleep, nausea and headaches. However, apart from the physical symptoms, hangovers also affect us mentally. 

Alcohol is a nervous system depressant, which affects the chemical messengers, or neurotransmitters in the brain. They increase the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the neurotransmitter that makes you feel relaxed and calm. It also reduces glutamate and slows down your thoughts, sending you into a relaxed state. Alcohol also affects moods, emotions, and alertness, making us feel more carefree and sociable.

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Once the alcohol wears off, our brain rebalances these chemicals by increasing glutamate and decreasing GABA. This results in the opposite effect on the brain, causing it to become overstimulated, which can make you feel anxious. The reason why only some people experience this can be due to various factors.

How do genes affect your hangover?

For some, it may depend on how much they drink or how hydrated they are, while for others, genetics may play a role. According to research, our genes influence how our body processes alcohol which may result in some people experiencing stronger symptoms of hangover and anxiety when compared to others.

How can mental health play a role?

Some people are unable to remember what they said while under the influence of alcohol the next morning. This may increase the feeling of worry and anxiousness. 

Research suggests that people who are already dealing with anxiety are more likely to experience hangxiety. Some people drink alcohol to relax after a stressful day or make them feel at ease at a social event. This may lead to higher consumption of alcohol, which results in much more intense hangover symptoms. This may also lead to a cycle of drinking to feel better followed by hangxiety.

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How to prevent and treat hangxiety?

To prevent hangover anxiety, it is best to limit alcohol consumption. It is also advisable to avoid any drugs like ecstasy or MDMA while drinking as they increase the chances of hangxiety.

If you wake up feeling anxious after drinking the previous night, focusing on easing the physical symptoms may help reduce the feeling of stress. Staying hydrated, having a light meal, and resting will help. You can also try mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises to calm your mind. Journaling or talking to a close friend may help you process your feelings.

(With inputs from agencies)