The doctor warned about the negative effects of caffeine on anxious people

Caffeine can worsen the condition of people with anxiety disorders, despite its invigorating effect. Irina Krashkina, a psychotherapist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg clinic), Candidate of Medical Sciences, told Izvestia about this on June 5.

"Caffeine is a stimulant that usually increases energy levels and invigorates, but in some people, especially those who suffer from anxiety, it can worsen their condition," the expert explained.

According to her, caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, which leads to increased levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. In healthy people, it improves mood, but in anxiety disorders it can increase anxiety, provoke panic attacks and insomnia.

Coffee brewing machine: demand for coffee making appliances in the Russian Federation in 2024 increased

Why Russians prefer to make this drink themselves

Krashkina noted that people with anxiety sometimes have impaired dopamine receptors. In such cases, caffeine does not give the expected cheerfulness, but causes fatigue and drowsiness.

"The reaction to caffeine is very individual — some people may feel cheerful even with increased anxiety, while others may experience much more pronounced negative effects," the specialist added.

According to her, it is not so easy to determine whether dopamine receptors are functioning. However, there are several steps and methods that can help assess a person's condition. So, a consultation with a psychotherapist or psychiatrist can help in identifying anxiety disorders. There are standardized questionnaires and tests, such as the GAD-7 or HAM-A questionnaires, that help assess anxiety levels.

"The doctor can also perform an instrumental examination and prescribe tests to rule out other causes of anxiety, such as hormonal disorders or thyroid disease," the doctor added.

She clarified that introspection can also help. For example, keeping a diary can help you understand your reactions to caffeine and its effects on mood and anxiety. This may include records of the amount of coffee consumed, the level of anxiety at the time of consumption, and the subsequent reaction.

"Coffee can actually have different effects on people with anxiety disorders, and it's important to pay attention to your individual reactions. If you are experiencing serious anxiety problems, it is worth consulting a doctor for professional help," concluded the psychotherapist.

Earlier, on April 26, Dmitry Semiryadov, a nutritionist and nutritionist, told Izvestia that too frequent use of smartphones and computers can increase stress levels. In addition, excessive consumption of caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, and chocolate, can increase anxiety and harm sleep.