Many people turn to alcohol as a way to unwind or cope with stress, but what many don’t realize is that drinking can actually make anxiety worse. In some cases, alcohol can even trigger panic attacks. Understanding the connection between alcohol and anxiety can help individuals make informed choices about their drinking habits and seek the right support when needed.

Why Does Alcohol Cause Anxiety?

While alcohol initially produces a sense of relaxation due to its depressant effects on the central nervous system, these effects are temporary. Once the alcohol begins to metabolize and leave the body, the brain experiences a rebound effect that can lead to increased anxiety. This happens for several reasons:

• Disruption of Brain Chemistry – Alcohol affects neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which help regulate mood. When alcohol leaves the system, these neurotransmitters become imbalanced, leading to heightened anxiety.
• Increased Heart Rate – Alcohol can cause heart rate fluctuations, which can mimic symptoms of a panic attack, such as palpitations and dizziness, triggering further anxiety.
• Dehydration and Blood Sugar Drops – Alcohol dehydrates the body and can cause drops in blood sugar, both of which contribute to feelings of weakness, irritability, and anxiety.
• Sleep Disruptions – While alcohol may make you feel drowsy, it interferes with REM sleep, leading to poorer quality rest and increased anxiety the next day.

What is Hangxiety?

“Hangxiety” is a term that describes the anxious feelings that arise after a night of drinking. It is a combination of a hangover and anxiety, often occurring due to the body’s attempt to rebalance itself after alcohol consumption. Hangxiety is common among individuals who already struggle with anxiety, but even those without a history of anxiety can experience it after excessive drinking.

Symptoms of Hangxiety:

• Overwhelming feelings of worry or dread
• Rapid heartbeat and jitteriness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sweating and nausea
• Disturbed sleep and fatigue

Why Does Hangxiety Happen?

• Withdrawal Effects – As alcohol leaves the system, the body goes through mild withdrawal, which can heighten stress responses.
• Memory Lapses – If alcohol caused memory gaps or blackouts, individuals may worry about what happened the night before, increasing their anxiety.
• Increased Cortisol Levels – Alcohol consumption leads to increased production of cortisol (the stress hormone), which remains elevated even after drinking stops.

Alcohol-Induced Panic Attacks

Why Do People Go to the Hospital for Panic Attacks?

Many individuals experiencing alcohol-induced panic attacks seek emergency medical care because the symptoms can feel life-threatening. The intense fear and physical symptoms often mimic those of a heart attack or other serious medical conditions, leading people to believe they are in immediate danger. Common reasons for going to the hospital include:

• Chest pain and rapid heartbeat – These symptoms can be mistaken for a cardiac event.
• Difficulty breathing – Panic attacks can cause hyperventilation and shortness of breath, making individuals fear they are suffocating.
• Dizziness and fainting – A surge of adrenaline and rapid changes in blood pressure can cause lightheadedness.
• Numbness or tingling sensations – Anxiety can cause a pins-and-needles feeling, leading some to worry about neurological issues.
• Feeling detached from reality (derealization or depersonalization) – This can be extremely distressing and lead to fears of losing control or going insane.

While panic attacks themselves are not life-threatening, seeking medical evaluation can provide reassurance and rule out other serious conditions. Additionally, for those experiencing frequent panic attacks due to alcohol use, it may be a sign that professional treatment is needed.

Some individuals experience full-blown panic attacks after drinking, even if they have never had a history of panic disorder. This is often due to alcohol’s impact on the nervous system and its ability to lower inhibitions while also increasing stress hormone production. Panic attacks caused by alcohol withdrawal or hangxiety can be intense and distressing.

Signs of an Alcohol-Induced Panic Attack:

• Sudden onset of intense fear or distress
• Shortness of breath
• Racing heart
• Feeling detached from reality
• Dizziness and nausea

How to Manage Alcohol-Related Anxiety

If alcohol is contributing to your anxiety or panic attacks, consider taking the following steps:

1. Reduce or Eliminate Alcohol Consumption

Limiting alcohol intake or quitting drinking altogether can significantly reduce anxiety levels.

2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Drinking water and eating nutrient-dense foods can help mitigate some of alcohol’s negative effects on the body.

3. Prioritize Sleep

Avoiding alcohol before bedtime can lead to better sleep quality and lower anxiety levels the next day.

4. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques

Breathing exercises, meditation, and gentle physical activity can help regulate stress levels.

5. Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling with anxiety and alcohol use, professional treatment can help you address both issues in a supportive environment.

Getting Help at Endless Mountain Behavioral Healthcare

At Endless Mountain Behavioral Healthcare, we understand the complex relationship between alcohol and mental health. Our programs offer personalized treatment for alcohol dependence and co-occurring anxiety disorders, including medical detox and therapy designed to help individuals regain control of their mental well-being.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol-related anxiety, we’re here to help. Contact Endless Mountain Behavioral Healthcare today for compassionate, professional support on your journey to recovery.