What is Hangxiety?
After a night of revelry and indulgence, it’s not uncommon to wake up with more than just a headache and a queasy stomach. There’s something else lurking in the shadows – a gnawing feeling of unease, guilt, and anxiety. This phenomenon, aptly termed “hangxiety,” is the emotional aftermath of heavy drinking.
Hangxiety is a real psychological phenomenon experienced by many individuals after consuming alcohol. It is characterized by feelings of anxiety, unease, guilt, and regret following a night of drinking. This emotional state can make the physical symptoms of a hangover feel even worse.
We’ll explore the science behind hangxiety, examining how alcohol affects the brain and why it often leads to this unsettling state. You’ll also learn to recognize the common symptoms of hangxiety and distinguish it from general anxiety disorders.
Causes of Hangxiety
Hangxiety doesn’t just happen randomly; there are specific factors and mechanisms at play that contribute to its development. Understanding these causes can shed light on why this phenomenon occurs and how we can address it effectively. Here are some of the primary culprits:
Alcohol
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, which means it slows down brain activity and impairs cognitive functions. While this can initially create feelings of relaxation and euphoria, the depressive effects become more pronounced as alcohol is metabolized and cleared from the body. As a result, the brain’s natural balance is disrupted, leading to feelings of sadness, low mood, and anxiety, often referred to as the “crash.”
Dehydration
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it promotes fluid loss through increased urination. This can lead to dehydration, a condition that can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and increased heart rate, all of which can intensify the physical and emotional discomfort associated with a hangover.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Alcohol can disrupt the normal sleep cycle. While it may make you feel drowsy and fall asleep more easily initially, it interferes with the deeper stages of sleep, including REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. REM sleep is essential for mental and emotional well-being, and its disruption can lead to increased irritability, mood swings, and heightened anxiety upon waking.
Impact on Neurotransmitters in the Brain
Alcohol alters the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that has a calming effect, while glutamate is excitatory and can lead to increased alertness and anxiety. When you consume alcohol, GABA activity increases, contributing to the initial sense of relaxation. However, as alcohol leaves your system, GABA levels drop, and glutamate becomes more active. This shift in neurotransmitter balance can result in heightened anxiety and restlessness.
Metabolism of Alcohol and Toxins
The process of metabolizing alcohol generates acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the body and brain. These processes may contribute to the physical discomfort and emotional distress experienced during a hangover, including anxiety.
The combination of these factors can create a perfect storm for hangxiety, making the morning after heavy drinking a challenging experience. Understanding these causes is the first step toward finding effective strategies to alleviate and prevent hangxiety. In the following sections, we’ll explore how to recognize the symptoms of hangxiety and implement coping strategies to deal with it effectively.
The Science Behind Hangxiety
Hangxiety isn’t merely a psychological phenomenon; there’s a solid scientific basis for why it occurs. To fully grasp the science behind hangxiety, it’s essential to understand how alcohol affects the brain and the intricate interplay of neurotransmitters and hormones. Here’s a closer look at the science that underpins hangxiety:
Alcohol’s Impact on Neurotransmitters
Alcohol has a profound effect on neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in the brain that regulate various functions, including mood and anxiety. Two key neurotransmitters come into play when we talk about hangxiety:
1. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces neural excitability. When you consume alcohol, it enhances the activity of GABA in the brain. This is why alcohol often has a sedative and anxiety-reducing effect initially, contributing to feelings of relaxation and euphoria.
2. Glutamate
In contrast to GABA, glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that increases neural activity and alertness. As alcohol is metabolized and its effects wear off, glutamate becomes more active. This shift in the balance between inhibitory (GABA) and excitatory (glutamate) neurotransmitters can lead to increased anxiety and restlessness, commonly experienced during the hangover phase.
3. Disruption of Sleep Patterns
Alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle, particularly REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is crucial for emotional well-being. REM sleep is when our brains process emotions and consolidate memories. When alcohol interferes with REM sleep, it can result in increased irritability and mood disturbances upon waking, contributing to hangxiety.
4. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance
Alcohol is a diuretic, causing increased urination and fluid loss. This leads to dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. Dehydration not only affects the physical state but can also contribute to irritability and emotional distress.
Impact of Alcohol Metabolism
The metabolism of alcohol produces acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body and brain. These processes may contribute to the physical discomfort and emotional turmoil experienced during a hangover, including anxiety.
It’s not just a matter of feeling guilty or regretful; there are tangible changes happening in your brain and body that contribute to these uncomfortable feelings.
Common Symptoms of Hangxiety
Hangxiety, like any other emotional state, manifests differently in individuals. However, there are some common symptoms that many people experience when dealing with hangover anxiety. Recognizing these symptoms can help you identify and address hangxiety effectively. Here are the typical signs:
- Restlessness: Feeling unable to sit still or relax is a common symptom of hangxiety. You may find yourself pacing, fidgeting, or constantly shifting positions as you grapple with inner tension.
- Rapid Heartbeat: An increased heart rate is a physiological response to anxiety. Your heart may race, and you might feel palpitations or a sensation of your heart pounding in your chest.
- Sweating: Profuse sweating, often accompanied by cold sweats, can be a physical manifestation of anxiety. You might notice that your palms are clammy or that you’re perspiring more than usual.
- Irritability: Hangxiety can make you unusually irritable and easily agitated. Minor irritations that you would normally brush off can feel overwhelmingly frustrating.
- Sense of Impending Doom: Many individuals with hangxiety describe a pervasive sense of impending doom or dread. It’s as if something terrible is about to happen, even though there may be no real reason for such feelings.
- Intrusive Thoughts: One hallmark of hangxiety is the replaying of events and actions from the previous night when you were intoxicated. You may obsess over things you said or did, leading to feelings of guilt and shame. These intrusive thoughts can be distressing and hard to control.
- Physical Discomfort: Hangxiety often comes with physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and muscle aches, which can further contribute to the overall sense of unease.
- Social Withdrawal: Some people with hangxiety may withdraw from social interactions and isolate themselves. They may feel embarrassed or fearful of facing others due to their perceived behavior while drinking.
Distinguishing Hangxiety from General Anxiety
While both may involve feelings of anxiety, they have different causes and durations. Here’s how you can distinguish between the two:
Hangxiety
- Temporary and Situation-Specific: Hangxiety is typically a temporary condition that arises after heavy alcohol consumption. It’s linked to specific instances of drinking and is most pronounced during the hangover phase, which can last for a few hours to a day.
- Linked to Alcohol Consumption: Hangxiety is closely tied to alcohol intake. It occurs as a reaction to the depressant effects of alcohol on the central nervous system and the subsequent disruption in neurotransmitter balance. Therefore, it tends to resolve as the alcohol is metabolized and leaves the body.
- Characterized by Guilt and Regret: Hangxiety often involves guilt and regret about actions or behaviors while intoxicated. Individuals may dwell on embarrassing or regrettable moments from the previous night.
- Temporary Physical Symptoms: The physical symptoms of hangxiety, such as restlessness, rapid heartbeat, and sweating, are primarily tied to the hangover and tend to dissipate as the hangover subsides.
General Anxiety Disorders
- Chronic and Persistent: General anxiety disorders are chronic conditions characterized by ongoing and persistent anxiety that lasts for at least six months. They are not linked to specific events or alcohol consumption.
- Not Dependent on Alcohol: General anxiety disorders are not dependent on alcohol or substance use. They can manifest in the absence of alcohol consumption and can affect individuals regardless of their drinking habits.
- Not Necessarily Associated with Guilt or Regret: While individuals with general anxiety disorders may experience a range of emotions, including guilt and regret, these emotions are not specific to the disorder itself. General anxiety can encompass a wide range of worries and fears beyond those related to past actions.
- Consistent Physical Symptoms: Physical symptoms of general anxiety disorders, such as muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues, persist over time and are not tied to the consumption of alcohol.
It’s important to note that experiencing hangxiety on occasion after a night of drinking is relatively common and doesn’t necessarily indicate a general anxiety disorder. However, find that hangxiety becomes frequent, severe, or starts to affect your daily life even when alcohol consumption is minimal. It may be an indicator of underlying anxiety issues that warrant professional attention.
Coping Strategies for Hangxiety
Pre-Party Tips to Minimise Hangxiety
To minimize hangxiety, consider moderation when drinking alcohol. Alternating alcoholic drinks with water, eating a substantial meal before drinking, and pacing yourself can help reduce the severity of hangxiety the next day. Additionally, getting enough rest before the event can make a difference.
Managing Hangxiety During a Hangover
If you wake up with hangxiety, try deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation to calm your mind. Hydrate with water and consume nourishing foods to replenish essential nutrients. Over-the-counter pain relievers may alleviate physical symptoms. Avoid caffeine, as it can exacerbate anxiety.
Long-term Strategies to Prevent Hangxiety
Long-term prevention involves reducing alcohol consumption or quitting altogether. Adopting a healthier lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management, can improve overall well-being and resilience to hangxiety.
Seeking Help and Support
When to Seek Professional Help
If hangxiety becomes overwhelming or persists even when alcohol consumption is minimal, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. They can assess whether underlying anxiety disorders are contributing to the issue and provide appropriate treatment.
Supportive Friends and Family
Having a support system is crucial when dealing with hangxiety. Share your feelings with trusted friends and family members who can offer emotional support and understanding during difficult times.
The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care, both before and after drinking, plays a significant role in mitigating hangxiety. By prioritizing your well-being, making responsible choices, and seeking professional help if needed, you can navigate the challenges of hangxiety more effectively.
Products to Cope with Anxiety
Calm – Full Spectrum CBD Oil
If you’re seeking natural relief from anxiety, you may want to consider Calm, a full-spectrum CBD oil specially formulated to help ease your mind and promote relaxation. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant known for its potential therapeutic benefits, including anxiety reduction.
Here’s why Calm’s full-spectrum CBD oil may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine:
- Natural Anxiety Relief: CBD has been the subject of extensive research for its potential to reduce anxiety. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays a role in regulating mood and stress responses.
- Full-Spectrum Benefits: Calm is a full-spectrum CBD oil, meaning it contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds from the hemp plant. This full-spectrum approach is believed to enhance the “entourage effect,” where these compounds work synergistically to provide greater therapeutic benefits.
- Non-Psychoactive: CBD is non-psychoactive, which means it won’t produce the “high” associated with THC. You can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD without impairing your cognitive function or daily activities.
- Easy to Use: Calm CBD oil is typically administered via sublingual drops, making it a convenient and precise way to incorporate it into your daily routine. You can adjust the dosage to suit your needs.
- Third-Party Tested: Reputable CBD products are often third-party tested for quality and potency. Look for products like Calm that provide lab-tested results, ensuring you’re getting a reliable and safe product.
Before adding any CBD product to your wellness routine, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide personalized guidance and help you determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.
Cannaflower Remedy Flower Strain
“Remedy” is a well-regarded cannabis strain known for its calming and therapeutic properties, particularly when used in the evening. This strain has gained popularity among cannabis users seeking relaxation and relief from various challenges life may present.
Here’s what you can expect from Remedy:
- Body Relaxation: Remedy is recognized for its ability to induce deep physical relaxation. Users often report relief from muscle tension, aches, and discomfort. This relaxation can be especially beneficial after a long and demanding day.
- Stress Reduction: Many individuals turn to Remedy to unwind and de-stress. The strain’s calming effects can help alleviate the mental and emotional burdens that accumulate throughout the day, making it easier to let go of stress and anxiety.
- Low Psychoactivity: Remedy is a CBD-dominant strain, meaning it contains higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD) compared to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As a result, it typically has minimal psychoactive effects. Users can experience relaxation without the intense “high” associated with high-THC strains.
- Versatility: The versatility of Remedy makes it a favorite choice for individuals seeking relief from various life challenges. Whether you’re dealing with physical discomfort, stress, or simply looking to wind down in the evening, Remedy offers a well-rounded solution.
- Ideal for Evening Use: Given its calming and non-intoxicating nature, Remedy is often recommended for evening use. It can help you unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
It’s important to note that individual responses to cannabis strains can vary, so it’s a good practice to start with a low dose if you’re new to Remedy or any cannabis product. Additionally, always adhere to local laws and regulations regarding cannabis use, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about incorporating cannabis into your wellness routine.
High-Potency CBD Hemp Oil Tincture
A high-potency CBD hemp oil tincture is a concentrated liquid extract derived from the hemp plant, which is rich in cannabidiol (CBD) and other beneficial compounds. This type of tincture is known for its potent concentration of CBD, making it a popular choice among individuals seeking the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD.
Here are key features and considerations related to high-potency CBD hemp oil tinctures:
- CBD Concentration: High-potency tinctures typically contain a significant amount of CBD per serving, often ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 milligrams (mg) or more per bottle. This high concentration allows users to achieve their desired CBD intake with smaller doses.
- Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: CBD hemp oil tinctures can be full-spectrum or CBD isolate-based. Full-spectrum tinctures contain a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant, potentially enhancing the entourage effect, where these compounds work together synergistically. CBD isolate tinctures contain pure CBD without any other cannabinoids or compounds.
- Usage: Tinctures are typically taken sublingually (under the tongue) for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. The dropper included with the tincture allows for precise dosing, making it easier to control your CBD intake.
- Effects: High-potency CBD tinctures are often chosen by individuals seeking relief from various issues, including chronic pain, anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances. The higher concentration of CBD may provide more pronounced effects.
- Third-Party Testing: Reputable CBD products, including tinctures, are often third-party tested for quality, potency, and purity. Look for products that provide lab-tested results, ensuring you’re getting a reliable and safe product.
- Legal Compliance: CBD products derived from industrial hemp with less than 0.3% THC are legal in many parts of the world. However, it’s crucial to check local laws and regulations regarding the sale and use of CBD products in your area.
- Consultation with Healthcare Professional: Before using a high-potency CBD hemp oil tincture, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on dosage and potential interactions with other medications.
Conclusion
By understanding the causes and recognizing the common symptoms of hangxiety, you can take proactive steps to manage and alleviate its impact on your well-being. Whether it’s practicing self-care, moderating your alcohol consumption, or seeking support from friends and professionals, there are effective strategies to help you navigate the challenges of hangxiety.
If you’re interested in exploring additional ways to support your mental and emotional well-being, we encourage you to check out the products offered by Leaf Alleviate. Their range of solutions may provide valuable tools in your journey toward a more balanced and anxiety-free life. Remember, you don’t have to face hangxiety alone, and there are resources available to help you live a happier and healthier life. Shop now.
FAQs
Q: Is Hangxiety a Real Psychological Phenomenon?
Yes, hangxiety is a real psychological phenomenon experienced by many individuals after consuming alcohol.
Q: How Long Does Hangxiety Typically Last?
The duration of hangxiety can vary from person to person, but it often peaks the morning after heavy drinking and may gradually improve throughout the day.
Q: Can Drinking in Moderation Reduce the Risk of Hangxiety?
Yes, moderating alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and eating before drinking can reduce the severity of hangxiety.
