Recognizing the complex relationship between anxiety and alcohol use disorder, We Level Up Washington delivers a comprehensive treatment approach designed to treat both conditions together for effective and sustained recovery.
Clinically Reviewed by Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS
Medically Reviewed by Ali Nikbakht, PsyD
Updated on January 26, 2026 — Editorial Policy | Research Policy
By We Level Up WA | Author Leslie Lugo, MS, RPh, BCPP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
Many people drink alcohol to relax. Some drink to feel calm or forget stress. At first, alcohol may seem to help with anxiety. But over time, alcohol can make anxiety worse. This is called the alcohol and anxiety link.This article explains the alcohol and anxiety link in very simple words. It covers how alcohol affects anxiety, alcohol anxiety symptoms, alcohol-induced anxiety causes, and ways to feel better. The goal is to help you understand what is happening and how support can help.
Understanding the Alcohol and Anxiety Link
Because of the alcohol and anxiety link, drinking alcohol frequently makes people feel uneasy. Alcohol alters brain function. It has an effect on mood, sleep, and stress levels.
Alcohol may slow down the brain initially. This can help someone feel better for a little while. But as the booze wears off, anxiety frequently comes back even worse. This can make you drink more to feel better, which makes you feel worse again.
Why People Drink When They Feel Anxious
Many people drink alcohol to cope with stress or worry. They may feel:
- Nervous in social settings
- Overwhelmed by work or life
- Unable to relax or sleep
Alcohol may seem like a quick fix. But it does not treat anxiety. It only hides it for a short time.
How Alcohol Affects Anxiety
When you know how alcohol affects anxiety, you can better understand why symptoms get worse over time.
Short-Term Effects
Right after drinking, alcohol can:
- Lower stress
- Reduce fear
- Make people feel relaxed.
This is why some people drink when they feel anxious.
Long-Term Effects
Over time, alcohol:
- Changes brain chemicals
- Disrupts sleep
- Increases stress hormones
- Weakens coping skills
These changes make anxiety stronger, not better.
End the Emotional Pain. Get Your Life Back.
Feeling Depressed, Anxious or Struggling with Mental Health Illness? Get Safe Comfortable Mental Health Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Therapy From Counselors That Care. Begin Your Recovery Now.
Hotline: (509) 348-4077
Alcohol Anxiety Symptoms
Mood and worry problems can happen while drinking or after you stop. A lot of people start to feel sick the next day.
Common Alcohol Anxiety Symptoms
- Racing thoughts
- Feeling nervous or on edge
- Fast heartbeat
- Shaking or sweating
- Trouble sleeping
- Panic feelings
- Fear for no clear reason
These symptoms can feel scary. They are real and common.
Alcohol-Induced Anxiety Causes
There are several causes of alcohol-induced anxiety. There is a link between alcohol and nervousness for these reasons.
Brain Chemical Changes
Alcohol affects chemicals that control calm and stress. When alcohol leaves the body, these chemicals drop. This can cause anxiety.
Poor Sleep
Alcohol disrupts deep sleep. Poor sleep increases anxiety and makes stress harder to handle.
Withdrawal Effects
When someone drinks often, the body gets used to alcohol. When alcohol is not present, anxiety can rise quickly.
Loss of Coping Skills
People who drink to deal with stress may not be able to learn good ways to deal with it.
Anxiety After Drinking: Why It Happens
A lot of people feel stressed the day after they drink. This is known as “hangxiety” at times.
It happens because:
- Alcohol leaves the body.
- Stress hormones increase
- Sleep was poor
- Dehydration affects the brain.
Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger anxiety in some people.
Can Alcohol Cause Anxiety Disorders?
Alcohol does not cause anxiety disorders by itself. But it can:
- Make existing anxiety worse.
- Trigger panic attacks
- Increase social anxiety
- Delay proper treatment
Anxiety makes people more likely to have problems with drinking, and heavy drinkers are more likely to feel anxious. The alcohol and anxiety link can be very strong, as this shows.
Reducing Anxiety Related to Drinking
Being aware is the first step to lowering the stress that comes from drinking. A few small steps can change a lot.
Helpful Steps to Try
- Drink less or stop drinking.
- Avoid alcohol before bed.
- Stay hydrated
- Eat regular meals
- Practice deep breathing
- Get enough sleep
These steps support both the body and the mind.
Comfortable Facilities & Amenities
High-Quality Mental Health Services & Behaviroal Health Substance Abuse Treatment
Rehab Centers TourRenowned Mental Health Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient Rehab Programs Vary.
Mental Health Helpline: (509) 348-4077Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:
15+
Years of Unified Experience
100s
5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers
10K
Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network
- Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
- Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
- Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
- Coaching, Recovery & Development Events
- Comfortable Onsite Medical Detox Center
What Happens When You Stop Drinking
At first, getting sober may make people feel more anxious. This is fine. To get back on track, the brain needs time.
Early Changes May Include
- Temporary anxiety
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
With time and support, many people feel calmer, clearer, and more stable.
When Alcohol and Anxiety Become a Bigger Problem
It may be time to seek help if:
- Anxiety feels constant
- Drinking increases anxiety
- Alcohol is used daily to cope.
- Panic attacks happen often.
- Life feels out of control.
Support can help break the cycle.
How Therapy Helps With Alcohol and Anxiety
The alcohol and anxiety link is better understood with therapy. It teaches better ways to deal with things.
Therapy can help with:
- Stress management
- Anxiety skills
- Emotional control
- Triggers for drinking
- Building confidence
Therapy treats the root problem, not just the symptoms.
World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Programs. Complete Integrated Inpatient Rehab with Free Post Discharge Therapy Planning.
Hotline: (509) 348-4077End the Emotional Pain Rollercoaster. Gain Stability & Happiness Through Recovery Treatment. Start Mental Health Counseling Today. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Behaviroal Health Specialists Who Understand Mental Health Recovery.
Support for Alcohol and Anxiety Together
Most of the time, you need to treat both alcoholism and nervousness at the same time. It might not work to treat just one.
Support may include:
- Therapy
- Medical care
- Support groups
- Structured routines
- Mental health treatment
This combined approach helps people feel safer and stronger.
Healthy Ways to Cope With Anxiety Without Alcohol
Learning new coping skills reduces the need for alcohol.
Simple Coping Tools
- Walking or light exercise
- Slow breathing
- Listening to calm music
- Writing thoughts down
- Talking to someone you trust
- Mindfulness practices
These tools reduce anxiety naturally.
Long-Term Healing Is Possible
The alcohol and anxiety link can be too much to handle. But a lot of people get better and get better.
With time, support, and care, people often notice:
- Less anxiety
- Better sleep
- Clearer thinking
- Improved mood
- Stronger coping skills
Healing is possible.
Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.
Searching for Accredited Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Centers Near You?
Even if therapy failed previously, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about counseling alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.
FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services HotlineFrequently Asked Questions
What is the alcohol and anxiety link?
Alcohol may feel calming at first, but it often makes anxiety worse after it wears off, according to the alcohol and anxiety link.
How does alcohol affect anxiety?
Alcohol may feel calming at first, but it can make anxiety worse as it wears off, according to the alcohol and anxiety link. Over time, drinking can make your worries worse and happen more often.
What are alcohol anxiety symptoms?
They include worry, panic feelings, a fast heartbeat, poor sleep, and nervousness.
What causes alcohol-induced anxiety?
Brain changes, poor sleep, withdrawal effects, and stress hormone changes.
Can reducing drinking lower anxiety?
Yes. Reducing or stopping alcohol often lowers anxiety over time.
Should I get help for alcohol and anxiety?
Yes. Professional support can help treat both safely and effectively. We Level Up Washington offers professional support and treatment options for alcohol and anxiety detox.
Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better
The alcohol and anxiety link can make life feel hard and confusing. You may drink to feel calm, but end up feeling more anxious. You are not alone, and help is available.
Support can help you understand how alcohol affects anxiety, reduce anxiety related to drinking, and build healthier coping skills. With the right care, anxiety can ease, and life can feel more balanced again.
If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out today. Call We Level Up Washington: (509) 348-4077 to learn about alcohol and anxiety withdrawal.
Further Readings
- Drinkware: Alcohol and Anxiety
- NIH: Alcohol, Anxiety & Depressive Disorders
- Mental Health Foundation: Alcohol & Mental Health
- Cleveland Clinic: Anxiety and Alcohol
Experience Transformative Recovery at the We Level Up Treatment Center.
See our authentic success stories. Get inspired.
Get the help you deserve.
Start a New Life
Begin with a free call to a behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.
- Personalized Care
- Caring Accountable Staff
- World-class Amenities
- Licensed & Accredited
- Renowned w/ 5-Star Reviews