If we’re feeling stressed or anxious, so often many of us will turn to a glass of wine or pint of beer to try and absolve that from our mind. It’s a behaviour that’s as old as time. We really do believe alcohol can calm our nerves.
But actually, in reality, that’s far from the case and while it may provide temporary relief, it’s only going to exacerbate anxiety in the long run. In fact, alcohol is so, so bad for making anxiety worse and can often lead down a pathway to even further problems, such as physical health issues and addiction, meaning you’ve not only got anxiety but you need an alcohol detox and treatment to boot.
But why is alcohol so bad for anxiety?
Alcohol is a Depressant
First and foremost, alcohol depresses the central nervous system. While we may feel a sense of relaxation or euphoria initially, that effect is short lived and as the body metabolises the booze, it will lead to the likes of fatigue, sadness and lethargy. This can really amplify the feelings of anxiety, and as a result a vicious cycle can commence.
Often people then return to drink to escape those anxious feelings and again feel that anxiety once the effects of alcohol subside once again. It’s a cycle that can be really influential in the formation of an addiction.
Disruption of Sleep Patterns
Often people think drinking will help them sleep better too and escape the fears and inability to sleep as a result of alcohol. The substance does make it easier to fall asleep, but it has a really disruptive impact on sleeping patterns and your overall quality of sleep will be much poorer.
It reduces the amount of restorative REM sleep we get, which is vital for emotional regulation and wellbeing. Over time, this lack of quality sleep can further heighten feelings of anxiety as fatigue kicks in, as well as the stress and irritability we associate with lack of sleep.
When tired, we become inefficient at coping and tackling life’s challenges which is only going to further impact anxiety and stress.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
When individuals consume alcohol regularly, their bodies can become dependent on it to function normally. This dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is not consumed, which can include increased anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. These withdrawal symptoms can start within hours of the last drink and can last for several days.
For those who drink to cope with anxiety, the fear of withdrawal symptoms can create a significant amount of stress and anxiety, leading to a cycle where the individual feels compelled to drink to avoid feeling worse. This dependency on alcohol only perpetuates the original anxiety issues, making it increasingly difficult to break free from the cycle.
Poor Decision-Making
Alcohol consumption can impair judgment and lead to risky behaviours. When under the influence, individuals may engage in actions they would typically avoid, such as saying things they later regret, getting into arguments, or making impulsive decisions. These actions can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment, all of which can further exacerbate anxiety.
For those already struggling with anxiety, poor decision-making while drinking can create a heightened sense of unease. The aftermath of a night out may lead to increased worry about how one was perceived by others or concern over potential consequences. This lingering anxiety can be difficult to shake off, further entrenching the individual in a cycle of alcohol use and anxiety.
Social Anxiety and Alcohol’s Role
For individuals with social anxiety, alcohol may initially seem like a solution to ease the discomfort of social situations. Many people use alcohol as a social lubricant, believing that it can help them feel more relaxed and confident in social settings. However, this reliance on alcohol can lead to increased anxiety in the long term.
As individuals become accustomed to using alcohol to cope with social situations, they may struggle to engage socially without it. This can create a dependency where the individual feels they cannot enjoy social interactions unless they are drinking. The pressure to drink can lead to feelings of isolation and increased anxiety when sober, as the individual grapples with their social discomfort.