Alcohol and Anxiety: Causes, Risks and Treatment

Another proposed theory refers to an expectancy component in people with anxiety who use alcohol. In this situation, a person expects to get relief from their anxiety symptoms when they consume alcohol because of its effect on the central nervous system (CNS). While small amounts of alcohol may activate GABA and cause you to relax, heavier drinking can sap GABA. Seeking professional treatment for an alcohol use disorder and anxiety can help you regain control of your life. Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) at , and speak to one of our compassionate and knowledgeable admissions navigators, who can answer your questions and explain your options.

What Does Hangxiety Feel Like?

Alcohol is a natural disinhibitor — meaning it can cause you to make choices you may not make while sober. This is why some people can wake up feeling embarrassed about things they said or did. This can definitely cause anxiety and worsen any existing phobias or overthinking tendencies you may already alcohol and anxiety have.

Risk Factors for Anxiety

If it would be helpful, consider reaching out to a professional or someone close to you to guide and hold you accountable. Preventing hangxiety requires a level of insight into your own emotions. You may experience anxiety-related emotions while under the influence of alcohol and/or as the effects of alcohol begin to wear off. People with AUD may also experience alcohol withdrawal, which can involve physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, nausea, and shaking. Naltrexone reduces alcohol cravings by blocking alcohol’s effects in the brain.

Expectations for Anxiety Relief

• Increased heart rate, or tachycardia, affects 40-60% of individuals with alcohol-induced anxiety disorder, particularly during withdrawal.
• A therapist or counselor can provide strategies for managing anxiety without alcohol and support you in addressing any underlying issues contributing to alcohol use.
• If you’re feeling nervous about being in a social setting, you may pour yourself a glass of wine to self-regulate any stress.
• This symptom is more pronounced during withdrawal or in individuals with a history of anxiety disorders.
• Not only does heavy drinking disrupt brain chemistry in the long term, but it can also trigger immediate anxiety spikes.
• The NHS website, Every Mind Matters, has advice on how to access support and treatment for anxiety in England.

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing the condition from worsening. If you’re struggling with anxiety related to alcohol use, our telemedicine practice can provide personalized care and support. Don’t wait—reach out to us today to start your journey toward better mental health. Gabapentin is often prescribed for patients with alcohol-induced anxiety disorder who also struggle with alcohol dependence. It is typically taken once or twice daily, with dosage adjustments based on the patient’s response.

The Risks of Using Alcohol to Relieve Anxiety

• It’s important that you talk to a healthcare provider or mental health professional who can guide you by providing you with a diagnosis, treatment plan, and direction for support during your recovery.
• Alcohol is a mild anesthesia and will put you in the mood for sleep — at least initially.
• Heavy or binge drinking is a significant factor, as consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period can alter brain chemistry, triggering anxiety.
• According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), about 7 percent of Americans have this form of anxiety.
• Surgeon General at that time sparked a pivotal change in how we perceive health and social norms when he boldly stated that tobacco is linked to cancer.

Even one drink can interrupt the natural cycles of sleep, causing a nervous or irritable feeling the next morning. Alcohol is a mild anesthesia and will put you in the mood for sleep — at least initially. Later in the sleep stages, alcohol disrupts REM sleep and paralytic sleep, which is when your body rejuvenates itself. Even if you’re consuming a standard amount of alcohol — a heroin addiction 12-ounce beer or a 5-ounce glass of wine — you’ll experience a mild detox or withdrawal.

• People with severe anxiety disorders may be especially at risk of developing AUD.
• When this occurs, alcohol dependence can occur during socializing, which worsens anxiety.
• Patients can expect improvements in anxiety symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks, with continued use leading to long-term relief.

This disorder occurs when alcohol consumption causes or exacerbates anxiety, either during intoxication, immediately after drinking, or during withdrawal. It falls under the broader category of substance-induced anxiety disorders, where substance use directly leads to anxiety symptoms. Studies have shown a different trend of alcohol use in people who are diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. For many people with these mental health conditions, unhealthy drinking behaviors begin around the same time as the disorder’s symptoms.