Drinking alcohol can have a wide range of effects on your body and mind. In the moment, you may enjoy the pleasant effects of feeling more outgoing and confident. Drinking too much can lead to loss of coordination, dizziness, nausea, and more.

The effects of drinking alcohol can often appear in the morning, too. Having a hangover is an unpleasant effect of heavy drinking–and it can cause some unexpected symptoms.

In addition to the pounding headache, sensitivity to light, and upset stomach common with a hangover, people may feel psychological symptoms, including anxiety.

But why is anxiety–or hangxiety, as some people call it–so common during a hangover? And what can you do to get rid of it?

This article will explore why hangxiety happens and how to deal with it. If you or someone in your life needs addiction treatment or support during recovery, reach out to the specialists at Moving Mountains Recovery today.

What is Hangxiety?

Hangxiety is a combination of the words “hangover” and “anxiety.”  Hangxiety can occur and may accompany other negative emotions. Hangxiety may be more likely if people feel anxious, shameful, or guilty about their drinking. According to researchers, certain factors, such as social anxiety or shyness, may contribute to experiencing hangxiety.

What Causes Hangxiety?

Hangxiety is a new term that describes experiences that still need more research. Mental health and addiction experts have several theories about why people may develop hangxiety.

Social anxiety

People who use alcohol to feel more comfortable in social situations may experience higher rates of anxiety as the alcohol begins to wear off. Other hangover symptoms may make the anxiety feel worse than usual.

Alcohol detox

Regardless of the amount of alcohol you consume, your body has to work to process and eliminate it. It takes time to detox from alcohol, whether you’ve had one drink or many. Some people experience withdrawal symptoms, including restlessness and anxiety, as their body eliminates alcohol.

Dehydration

Alcohol has a diuretic effect on your body, meaning you’ll need to run to the bathroom more often while drinking. Frequent urination can lead to dehydration if that fluid isn’t replaced. Since many people skimp on water or other hydrating drinks while consuming alcoholic beverages, dehydration is common. Research shows that even mild dehydration can cause anxiety and other mood changes.

Folic acid deficiency

Maintaining the correct balance of nutrients is essential to maintaining good emotional balance. Alcohol consumption has been proven to lower your folic acid levels, which can lead to mood changes, including anxiety and depression.

Medication interactions

Alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of some anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory drugs, making users feel restless, anxious, or jittery. It’s important to consult your doctor about drinking while taking your medications.

Guilt or worry

Since alcohol can make you feel more relaxed and less inhibited in social situations, many people behave differently when intoxicated than they would sober. People may say or do things they regret in the morning–which can lead to hangxiety.

Some may wake up and have trouble remembering the previous night’s events. Or, if they do have memories of their behaviors, they may feel embarrassed or ashamed.

Bad sleep

Drinking can take a toll on your sleep quality. It can cause you to wake up frequently throughout the night and keeps you from getting high-quality sleep. Even if you sleep an average amount, you will likely wake up feeling less than refreshed. Poor sleep can cause mood swings and worsen conditions like depression and anxiety.

Does Everyone Get Hangxiety After Drinking?

Some people can wake up feeling fresh and ready for the day after a night of drinking, and others find it difficult even to leave their bed. Some people experience significant hangxiety whenever they have a hangover, and some never have this experience. Why are people’s experiences so different?

Research suggests that people who feel shy or have social anxiety when sober may be more likely to experience hangxiety. People who live with general anxiety may also be more affected by the effects of alcohol and more likely to feel hangxiety.

How To Get Rid of Your Hangxiety

Hangxiety can make you feel more miserable than usual after a night of drinking. Here are some tips for dealing with anxiety the day after drinking.

• Take care of your physical health. Drink plenty of water, eat nutritious foods regularly, and prioritize sleep.
• Practice good mental health self-care. Do breathing exercises that calm your body and mind. Meditate, journal, or reach out to a friend or trusted family member.
• Make a list of things you’re worried about. Sometimes simply writing them on paper can put problems into perspective.

If you experience hangxiety but can’t seem to stop drinking, it could be a sign that you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, including dependence or alcohol addiction. Seek treatment if you need help to quit drinking or want support at any point in recovery.

Find Help Now

If you continue to drink despite having hangxiety and other consequences, you may need help to stop drinking safely and regain control of your health. Don’t wait another day for the treatment and support you need. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery team today to explore your alcoholism treatment options.