What is panic disorder?
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that reaches a peak within minutes and involves various physical and emotional symptoms. Individuals with panic disorder often live in fear of having future attacks, which can significantly impact their daily lives and activities.
Can alcohol cause panic attacks?
Yes, alcohol can contribute to panic attacks in several ways. While some people may initially use alcohol to relax or alleviate anxiety, its effects on the body and mind can ultimately lead to increased anxiety and panic.
How are alcohol and anxiety related?
Alcohol and anxiety are closely intertwined, with many individuals using alcohol to temporarily alleviate feelings of anxiety or stress. While it may provide short-term relief and relaxation, the long-term effects of alcohol consumption can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, leading to a cycle of dependence. As alcohol wears off, individuals often experience heightened anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, and changes in brain chemistry that can worsen their overall mental health. This complex relationship highlights the importance of addressing alcohol use in the treatment of anxiety disorders to promote healthier coping strategies.
Alcohol-Induced panic attack symptoms
There are following symptoms for alcohol-induced panic attacks.
- Racing heart
- Palpitations
- Shaking
- Chest tightness or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Hot or cold flashes
- Dizziness
- Abdominal distress, diarrhea
When a panic attack occurs it often happens with no warning and with no cause or dangerous situation present. Although research has not yet determined the cause of panic disorder, there is some indication that panic disorder has a genetic component. Significant and stressful life events may also be causal in developing this mental health disorder.
About Alcohol Use Disorder
While most adults can use alcohol responsibly, some may find themselves leaning on the substance and consuming more alcohol than is healthy for them. When someone consistently exceeds the guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this constitutes an alcohol use disorder. The CDC defines moderate alcohol intake as no more than one alcoholic beverage per day for women or two per day for men.
The number of symptoms an individual experiences will dictate the level of severity of the alcohol use disorder, ranging from mild, to moderate, to severe in acuity. Symptoms of alcohol use disorder include:
- Drinking more than you intend
- Try to stop drinking, or cut back, and cannot
- Engage in high risk behaviors while intoxicated
- Increased tolerance to alcohol, leading to higher consumption
- Continue to drink regardless of negative consequences
- Spend increasing amounts of time drinking
- Withdrawing socially, isolating
- Legal problems due to drinking, such as a DUI
- Neglecting responsibilities and obligations
- Experience withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit drinking
Comprehensive Treatment for the Panic Disorder and Alcohol Abuse
Treating the co-occurring panic disorder and alcohol use disorder requires a dual diagnosis treatment program. These specialized programs are equipped with the expert staff that is trained to manage the sometimes unpredictable issues that may emerge during treatment. Both disorders should be treated concurrently for the best recovery outcome.
If the individual with panic disorder has developed alcoholism, the first step in recovery will be to undergo a medical detox process. Alcohol detox can present certain health risks, so it is advisable to seek a medically supervised detox program where symptoms and vital signs can be closely monitored and treated.
Treatment for the two conditions will involve psychotherapy, medication, such as antidepressants or naltrexone, and experiential and holistic adjunctive therapies. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is helpful for both disorders by guiding the individual to make fundamental shifts in their behavioral response to triggers. CBT also helps individuals develop new coping skills and a more productive mindset.
Exposure therapy is helpful for treating the panic disorder in particular. Exposure therapy is what the title infers, involving incremental exposure to fear situations or sensations. Helping individuals to apply the coping skills learned in CBT, and utilizing deep-breathing techniques, while engaged in exposure therapy can help them learn how to better manage the intense fear and worry associated with panic disorder.
Treatment should also include activities that enhance relaxation, teaching individuals how to achieve relaxation as a lifestyle remedy for managing stress. These activities might include meditation, mindfulness, yoga, massage therapy, journaling, and regular exercise.
Quest 2 Recovery Provides Expert Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Los Angeles
Quest 2 Recovery is a leading provider of addiction and dual diagnosis treatment, offering an effective blending of evidence-based approaches with holistic adjunctive therapies. For individuals struggling with the co-occurring panic disorder and alcohol abuse, our compassionate team is here ready to guide you toward a successful recovery. For more information about our program, please visit our website or reach out to the Quest team at (888) 453-9396.
FAQs
Can alcohol cause panic attacks the next day?
Yes, alcohol can cause panic attacks the next day due to hangover effects, withdrawal symptoms, impaired sleep, and neurotransmitter imbalances, which can heighten anxiety levels.
What is the relationship between anxiety and alcohol use?
The relationship between anxiety and alcohol use is cyclical; individuals often use alcohol to cope with anxiety, but long-term use can worsen anxiety symptoms and lead to dependence. Reducing alcohol intake is crucial for effectively treating anxiety disorders.
Does quitting alcohol reduce anxiety?
Yes, quitting alcohol can reduce anxiety, as it often exacerbates symptoms. Stopping alcohol intake can improve mood, sleep quality, and overall mental health.
