Alcohol can cause bouts of severe hangover anxiety.
Alcohol not only harms internal organs but also causes bouts of severe anxiety. This was reported by therapist Rakesh Gupta to the Indian Express.
The doctor noted that during alcohol consumption, the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid, which provides a sense of calm, is enhanced, while the level of glutamate, which is responsible for alertness, decreases. But after a few hours, the picture becomes the opposite: levels of endorphins and gamma-aminobutyric acid drop, while glutamate increases. "Essentially, the brain abruptly shifts from a state of 'too relaxed' to a state of 'too excited,'" Gupta explained.
The neurologist emphasized that such hangover anxiety is an independent symptom that is not related to other manifestations of a hangover. He named the best way to get rid of it as abstaining from alcohol, or at least reducing the amount consumed. The doctor added that drinking a glass of water after each serving of alcohol, as well as having a good snack, helps lower anxiety levels. The next day after consuming alcohol, Gupta advised getting plenty of sleep, having breakfast, and going for a walk. These simple actions help calm the nervous system and reduce emotional discomfort.
The therapist emphasized that some people experience hangover anxiety more intensely than others. He pointed out that women, people with depression, and those who abuse alcohol may have a more acute response from their nervous system. In this case, Gupta recommended completely abstaining from alcoholic beverages.
