Can Hair of the Dog Really Cure Hangxiety?
For many, the morning after drinking can bring more than just a headache or queasiness. Enter “hangxiety”—a combination of a hangover and anxiety. While it's tempting to reach for a morning drink, known colloquially as the “hair of the dog,” many question whether this remedy actually works or does more harm than good.
Understanding Hangxiety
Hangxiety is a portmanteau of “hangover” and “anxiety.” It describes that peculiar cocktail of physical unease and emotional panic some people experience after drinking. Typically, hangxiety sets in several hours after blood alcohol levels start dropping, particularly when intoxication was heavy or prolonged.
Common symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Sense of doom or dread
- Obsessive overthinking about behaviors while intoxicated
- Rapid heartbeat
- Restlessness or panic attacks
What Is “Hair of the Dog”?
The term "hair of the dog that bit you" refers to the practice of drinking more alcohol in the morning to alleviate symptoms of a hangover. The idea is that a small amount of alcohol will take the edge off withdrawal symptoms.
Mechanism of action:
- Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant.
- It can temporarily numb anxiety and discomfort by increasing dopamine and GABA activity.
- This creates a short-lived calming effect.
Does It Really Work?
While hair of the dog might feel like it "works" momentarily, the relief is often short-lived and comes at a cost.
Temporary relief mechanism:
- It postpones withdrawal symptoms, rather than fixing them.
- It can mask the discomfort, giving a false sense of recovery.
Long-term consequences:
- Prolonged drinking cycles
- Increased tolerance and dependence
- Heightened anxiety once the alcohol wears off
- Strain on liver and cardiovascular health
Scientific Perspective on Hangxiety
Research shows that
alcohol’s impact on neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin contributes to the calming sensation during consumption. However, as levels of alcohol decrease in the bloodstream, a rebound effect occurs:
- GABA activity drops
- Glutamate, a stimulating neurotransmitter, surges
- Heart rate and cortisol levels spike
This sudden shift can trigger or exacerbate anxiety—the core issue in hangxiety.
Better Ways to Treat Hangxiety
While reaching for alcohol might seem convenient, there are more effective, sustainable methods to address post-drinking anxiety:
- Hydration: Rehydrate with water and electrolytes to restore balance.
- Nutrition: Eat balanced meals high in protein and complex carbohydrates.
- Sleep: Allow your body and brain adequate rest to recover.
- Supplements: Consider magnesium, B-complex vitamins, or L-theanine for recovery.
- Mental Health Practices: Engage in mindfulness, deep breathing, or journaling to manage anxiety thoughts.
Why People Keep Reaching for Hair of the Dog
Despite the risks, people often choose to drink again because:
- It provides immediate symptom relief
- There may be social pressure to “brunch drink” or continue weekend festivities
- Denial or minimization of the emotional and physical consequences
But what feels like a solution might actually deepen a cycle of anxiety and dependency.
Professional Guidance
If hangxiety becomes a recurring issue, it might be a sign of deeper mental health or substance use challenges. Seeking guidance from a therapist or medical professional is advisable. Treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medications for anxiety, and substance use support can be invaluable in managing both drinking habits and emotional wellness.
Final Thoughts
While the hair of the dog might offer
short-term symptom relief, it doesn’t address the underlying causes of hangxiety. In fact, relying on alcohol to manage emotions can compound both physical hangover symptoms and anxious feelings. For long-lasting well-being, healthier recovery strategies and professional support offer a far more effective path forward.
