'That nagging feeling of dread': Is 'hang-xiety' a real thing?

For many, waking up with a hangover means more than just a pounding headache. It often brings a wave of anxiety, a feeling of having done something wrong or embarrassing. This is what experts call "hang-xiety," a term coined in social slang a decade ago. Eleanor Tobin, a 25-year-old marketing professional from London, experiences this firsthand. She checks her bag and phone repeatedly, fearing she might have missed something important or said something foolish.

The anxiety that follows a night of drinking is largely due to alcohol's impact on the brain and nervous system. It enhances the effects of GABA, a chemical that promotes relaxation, while suppressing glutamate, which is involved in alertness and excitement. As alcohol wears off, the body's attempt to rebalance can lead to heightened alertness and anxiety.

Not everyone experiences hang-xiety, and the severity does not always match the amount of alcohol consumed. Psychological traits, such as shyness, can influence the anxiety levels. A 2019 study at the University of Exeter found that shy drinkers often felt more anxious the next day compared to non-shy drinkers. This is because alcohol initially helps to calm social nerves, but the rebound effect of anxiety occurs the following morning.

The anxiety can be so intense that it starts to distort normal experiences, turning innocuous moments into embarrassing memories. This cycle of worry can last long after the physical symptoms of a hangover have subsided, contributing to what is known as the "Sunday scaries." A lack of quality sleep due to alcohol also exacerbates the problem, as the brain struggles to regulate emotions when tired.

Experts recommend moderation as the best approach. The UK guidelines suggest no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread out over several days. Drinking water between alcoholic drinks and eating during the night can also help mitigate some effects. It's also advised to avoid turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress. Instead, talking to a friend or seeking professional help can be beneficial. The key is to remember that the anxiety is a temporary state and not a reflection of real social failures.