Are you feeling unusually anxious and on edge the morning after a night out partying? It may be that you’re experiencing something known as ‘hangxiety’. Hangxiety is the term used to describe an unpleasant combination of anxiety, low mood, and restlessness for hours or even days after drinking. It can be a distressing condition that can interfere with daily activities, but don’t worry – there are things you can do to ease its effects. Read on to learn more about hangxiety and how it affects your mind and body to help manage the symptoms.
How to Manage the Dreaded “Hangxiety” After a Night Out
Hangxiety is often caused by a hangover or the body’s reaction to an excessive intake of alcohol. Symptoms can include feelings of depression, anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce hangxiety and make your recovery more comfortable.
One way to manage hangxiety is to hydrate and replenish your body with electrolytes. Dehydration can be a significant factor in hangover symptoms, so drinking plenty of water and other fluids, such as coconut water or sports drinks, can help you recover more quickly. Eating healthy meals rich in fruits and vegetables and lean proteins will also assist with hangxiety by providing your body with the nutrients it needs to help you feel better.
Getting a good night’s sleep is also essential for hangxiety recovery. Alcohol can disrupt your sleep patterns, so try to get at least 8 hours of restful sleep if possible. If this isn’t achievable, naps may be beneficial as they can help your body recuperate.
Finally, staying active and exercising can significantly reduce hangxiety symptoms such as depression and low mood. Exercise releases endorphins, hormones that can elevate your mood and give you an energy boost. Even if it’s just a walk or some light stretching, any form of physical activity can help you to feel better.
Reasons Of Anxiety
Social anxiety
Social anxiety is the fear of being judged or criticised by others in social situations. It can be a disabling condition that causes intense distress and a persistent fear of rejection or humiliation. Symptoms often include blushing, trembling, sweating, and difficulty speaking.
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
GAD is a chronic condition characterised by persistent and excessive worry about various topics or activities. Symptoms often include fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping, and restlessness.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that causes sudden and intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as a pounding heart, sweating, and difficulty breathing. Panic attacks typically last only a few minutes but can be very distressing.
Emotional withdrawal
Emotional withdrawal is a form of hangxiety characterised by feeling numb, disconnected from the world, and having difficulty expressing emotion. It is often associated with depression, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Alcohol detox
Alcohol detox is the process of abstaining from alcohol and helping your body break down any remaining alcohol toxins in your system. It can involve medication, behavioural therapy, and lifestyle changes to reduce withdrawal symptoms such as hangxiety.
Folic acid deficiency
Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is essential for optimal health. A deficiency of this important nutrient can lead to hangxiety and other mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
Hangxiety is a normal reaction to drinking excessively and can be managed by staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest. Eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and seeking professional help can also be beneficial. Recognizing the signs of hangxiety and taking steps to manage it can help to improve your overall well-being.
Regret or worry
Regret or worry and hangxiety are the guilt, shame and regret associated with excessive drinking. It can manifest as a fear of negative consequences, such as losing friends or ruining relationships, leading to deep sadness and despair.
Alcohol intolerance
Alcohol intolerance hangxiety is caused by a physical reaction to alcohol that can involve symptoms such as redness of the face, nausea, headaches, and feeling faint. This type of hangxiety is more common in people with Asian ancestry but can occur in anyone who has difficulty metabolising alcohol.
Poor sleep
Poor sleep hangxiety is caused by disrupted sleep patterns, which can be linked to alcohol consumption. It can lead to feelings of fatigue and low mood, as well as physical and mental exhaustion. Improving your sleep hygiene and getting enough restful sleep can help to reduce hangxiety symptoms.
These hangxiety symptoms are best managed with self-care strategies such as talking to a trusted friend, getting counselling or therapy, and writing down your feelings in a journal. Taking time out for yourself and engaging in activities you enjoy can also help to reduce anxiety-related worries.
Why doesn’t it happen to everyone?
Hangxiety is not an inevitable response to excessive drinking; some people may experience hangxiety symptoms more severely than others. It can be due to a combination of genetics, lifestyle and environment. Certain medications can also increase hangxiety symptoms, so it’s essential to consult your doctor if you think this may be the case.
There is no single answer to why hangxiety occurs, but it’s important to remember that hangxiety is a normal reaction, and with the proper support, it can be managed. Taking care of yourself and seeking help when needed can help to reduce hangxiety symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
How to deal with it
The best way to deal with hangxiety is to take preventive measures before drinking, such as eating a balanced meal, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive drinking. Once hangxiety sets in, it’s important to practise self-care strategies such as talking to a friend or family member, getting professional help if needed, and engaging in activities that make you feel good. Taking a break from alcohol or reducing your intake can also be beneficial.
Hangxiety can be challenging, but understanding why it occurs and taking steps to manage it can help improve your overall well-being. With the proper support, hangxiety symptoms can be reduced and worked healthily.
How to prevent it from happening again
Preventing hangxiety from happening again is possible by taking proactive steps before and after drinking. Before drinking, stay hydrated, eat a balanced meal, and limit alcohol intake. After drinking, it’s important to get plenty of restful sleep, practice self-care, and talk to a friend or family member if needed. Additionally, seeking help from a healthcare professional if hangxiety symptoms persist can be beneficial.
Reducing or abstaining from alcohol altogether can also help to prevent hangxiety symptoms from occurring in the future. It’s important to remember that hangxiety is a normal reaction, and with the proper support, it can be managed. Taking care of yourself and seeking help when needed can help to reduce hangxiety symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
Conclusion
Hangxiety is a normal reaction to excessive drinking and can be managed with the proper support. Taking preventive measures such as eating a balanced meal, staying hydrated, and limiting your alcohol intake can help to reduce hangxiety symptoms. In addition, practising self-care strategies such as talking to a trusted friend, getting counselling or therapy, and engaging in activities that make you feel good can also be beneficial. Taking care of yourself and seeking help when needed is the best way to reduce hangxiety symptoms and improve your overall well-being.Hangxiety