Alcohol Withdrawal can Trigger Panic Attacks

Just one evening of reasonably heavy drinking can cause frightening alcohol withdrawal panic attacks.

One of the most unpleasant effects of addiction to alcohol is the withdrawal that can happen when the consumption of alcohol is abruptly stopped. Not only can this lead to physical symptoms ranging from mild to severe, but it can also cause mental and emotional distress, including panic attacks.

The threat of panic attacks is one factor that makes it more difficult for people to overcome addiction to alcohol. It also makes the road to recovery full of angst, pain, and setbacks.

Why Alcohol Causes Panic Attacks

Alcohol consumption changes the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. GABA is one of those neurotransmitters. It’s known as an inhibitory neurotransmitter because it slows down the activity of the nervous system.

Drinking alcohol increases the effects of GABA, which leads to feelings of relaxation and calm. But when alcohol consumption is stopped, the opposite happens. The levels of GABA drop and the nervous system becomes more active. This can cause a number of symptoms, including anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia.

Panic attacks often occur after a night of drinking as withdrawal begins just 5 hours after the last drink s was consumed.

Potential Dangers of Panic Attacks

While panic attacks may be just a symptom of alcohol withdrawal, they can also be quite dangerous. In some cases, panic attacks can lead to:

• Agitation
• Heart Palpitations
• High Blood Pressure
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Shortness of Breath
• Nausea
• Chest Pain
• Seizures

Because of all the potential health and safety hazards, treating alcohol addiction and the withdrawals that come along with it is a priority.

How to Cope With Alcohol Withdrawal Panic Attacks

There are a few things that you can do to help ease the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and minimize the chances of having a panic attack.

1. Get Plenty of Sleep: This can be difficult when you’re going through alcohol withdrawal, but it’s important to get as much sleep as possible. Alcohol withdrawal can cause insomnia, so try to establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as best you can.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy diet will help your body to recover from the damage that’s been done by alcohol abuse. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of caffeine.

3. Exercise: Exercise can help to release tension and relieve stress. It can also help to improve your mood and boost your energy levels.

4. Avoid triggers: If there are certain things that trigger your panic attacks, do your best to avoid them. This might include things like drinking alcohol, using drugs, or being in stressful situations.

5. Seek professional help: If you’re having difficulty coping with alcohol withdrawal and panic attacks, seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with support and guidance as you recover from addiction.

Alcohol withdrawal and panic attacks can be a difficult and dangerous combination. But with proper care and treatment, it is possible to overcome both. These steps can help, but following The Alcohol Coach can get you across the finish line.

What to do During an Alcohol Panic Attack

If you find yourself experiencing a panic attack, there are a few things that you can do to help ease the symptoms:

1. Try to relax: This might seem difficult, but it’s important to try to focus on your breathing and slow down your heart rate. Try to take deep, slow breaths and hold them for a few seconds.

2. Remove yourself from the situation: If you’re in a place that’s triggering your panic attack, try to remove yourself from the situation. This might mean leaving a party or getting out of a crowded area.

3. Use visualization: Visualization can be a helpful tool for managing anxiety and panic attacks. Picture yourself in a peaceful, calm place. Focus on the details of your surroundings and try to relax your body.

4. Seek professional help: If you’re having difficulty managing your panic attacks, seek professional help. The Alcohol Coach can provide you with support and guidance as you recover from addiction.

Other Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

Panic attacks aren’t the only symptoms that someone experiencing alcohol withdrawal might experience. Other common symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle Aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Tremors
• Appetite loss
• Hallucinations

Alcohol withdrawal can be a difficult and dangerous process. If you are going through alcohol withdrawal, it may be time to seek innovative treatment options, such as The Alcohol Coach Masterclass or Private Coaching.

Consequences of Panic Attacks on Your Life

As if the experience of having a panic attack alone isn’t damaging enough, the problem of panic attacks can balloon to impact various areas of your life, if not addressed. Here are some of the ways that alcohol withdrawal panic attacks can hinder your life.

Social Obligations

With the looming threat of panic attacks, you’ll quickly find that you won’t be able to meet your social or friend obligations. The fear of having a panic attack in public is enough to keep you from attending that party, going out to eat, or even just leaving the house.

Work Life

Your work life will also suffer as a result of your panic attacks. The constant worry of having an attack will make it difficult to focus on your work tasks. You may find yourself calling in sick more often or being less productive when you are at work.

Romantic Relationships

The panic attacks can also put a strain on your romantic relationships. The fear of having an attack can make it difficult to be intimate with your partner. This can lead to conflict and eventually, the end of the relationship.

Health Implications

There are also health implications that come with panic attacks. The constant stress of having an attack can lead to high blood pressure and a number of other health problems. If you already have a health condition, the panic attacks can make it worse.

Family Obligations

Last and certainly not least, your family life and obligations can suffer at the hands of alcohol withdrawal. The constant worry and stress of having an attack can make it difficult to be there for your family. You may find yourself missing important family events or neglecting your responsibilities.

All of these areas of your life can be negatively impacted by panic attacks. It’s important to seek help if you are struggling with alcohol withdrawal and panic attacks.

Alcohol Withdrawal Panic Attacks FAQs

Q: Can alcohol withdrawal cause panic attacks?

A: Yes, alcohol withdrawal can cause panic attacks. If you’re experiencing anxiety or panic attacks during alcohol withdrawal, it’s important to seek professional help.

Q: What are some of the other symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?

A: Other symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can include anxiety, depression, irritability, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting, sweating, insomnia, tremors, appetite loss, and hallucinations.

Q: Can The Alcohol Coach help with alcohol withdrawal and panic attacks?

A: Yes! The Alcohol Coach offers innovative treatment options for those struggling with alcohol withdrawal and panic attacks. Our Masterclass and Private Coaching can help you to overcome these challenges and build a foundation for long-term sobriety.

Let’s Recap

The Alcohol Coach is a unique, innovative program that has helped thousands of people overcome addiction and dependency on alcohol. With the help of our program, panic attacks and the stressful lifestyle that comes along with them can be cast aside.

If you’re ready to seek out self-empowerment and defeat dependency on alcohol, then you should learn more about The Alcohol Coach and the life that it can help you achieve.