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Many people turn to alcohol for relaxation, yet some ironically find themselves struggling with heightened anxiety the following day. Why does it happen anyway?

Psychiatrist Mark Jaffe explains that the initial feelings of calmness and euphoria induced by alcohol are a result of its impact on neurotransmitters. However, as the effects of alcohol wear off, withdrawal sets in, giving rise to increased anxiety, fatigue, and depression. George Koob from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism or NIAAA emphasizes that using alcohol to self-medicate anxiety can worsen the problem, causing a rebound effect.

Alcohol influences excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, initially suppressing their activity. As the body adjusts to this suppression, an excess of glutamate can accumulate, intensifying feelings of anxiety. Additionally, the temporary suppression of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor or CRF, a stress neurotransmitter, during alcohol consumption contributes to heightened stress and anxiety during withdrawal.

Symptoms of anxiety after drinking

Not everyone experiences post-alcohol anxiety, and its likelihood varies based on factors such as the quantity of alcohol consumed, dietary habits and the presence of an anxiety disorder. Hangovers essentially represent withdrawal symptoms from alcohol.

Post-drinking anxiety symptoms may manifest as sweating, restlessness, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, tension, and a desire to avoid social interactions. For those predisposed to panic, the bodily sensations during alcohol withdrawal might trigger panic attacks.

Balancing alcohol and anxiety

For some individuals, avoiding alcohol or moderating its intake represents the best strategy to prevent heightened anxiety. Alcohol indeed reduces anxiety for the short-term, but relying on it as a long-term solution is not advisable. In some cases, reducing alcohol intake may be recommended over complete and sudden abstinence.

Minimizing the risk of anxiety after drinking involves adopting responsible drinking habits. This includes consuming alcohol slowly, alternating with water, staying hydrated and avoiding drinking on an empty stomach.