Using Alcohol to Relieve Anxiety

Having a panic attack is not pleasant! But, I have discovered, that if one has an alcohol problem, the withdrawals can cause them. --danieldidonna1

People with anxiety disorders are up to three times more likely to have an alcohol or other substance abuse disorder than those without an anxiety disorder. But, what begins as a way to cope with anxiety, can quickly have the opposite effect of increasing distress. Problem drinking leads to alcohol withdrawal. This is often called a "hangover."� The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can include:

• anxiety
• panic attacks
• nausea
• vomiting
• elevated blood pressure and heart rate
• agitation
• increased body temperature

These symptoms tend to create a cycle of heightened anxiety and increased problem drinking. If you're having trouble controlling your alcohol consumption or are self-medicating your symptoms with alcohol or other drugs, talk to your doctor or therapist.

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