The Psychology of your 20s 39. The psychology of hangiexty
Aug 7, 2022
Explore the intriguing effects of alcohol on the brain and how it leads to post-drinking anxiety, often referred to as 'hangxiety.' Discover personal stories that highlight these experiences and learn practical coping strategies to counteract the stress that can follow a night out. Delve into the psychological implications of drinking in your 20s and understand why our bodies react the way they do, aiming to help you navigate this common challenge.
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Alcohol's Double Effect
- Alcohol, a downer drug, targets GABA receptors, reducing arousal.
- It also blocks glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter linked to anxiety.
Hangxiety Origins
- The body tries to restore balance after drinking, leading to low GABA and high glutamate.
- This imbalance causes hangxiety, as glutamate is linked to anxiety.
Noradrenaline's Role
- Noradrenaline, the fight-or-flight hormone, is suppressed while drinking and increases during withdrawal.
- This surge can worsen anxiety and impair memory consolidation, leading to stress and regret.