William Porter Explains the Science Behind Hangxiety and Alcohol Dependency
For me that's where the line is crossed, because anyone who ever drank alcohol had a withdrawal from it.
Ever wondered why a night of drinking leaves you feeling anxious the next day? In this episode of Tribe Sober, host Janet Gourand sits down with William Porter, a lawyer with a deep interest in the science of alcohol dependency. William, the author of 'Alcohol Explained' and its sequel, shares his journey from starting to drink and smoke at 14 to finally quitting both vices. His secret? Understanding the science behind addiction.
William dives into the concept of 'hangxiety'—that nagging anxiety that follows a night of drinking. He explains how alcohol messes with your brain chemistry, making it over-sensitive and leading to those dreaded anxious feelings. It's not just about feeling bad; it's about your brain getting tricked into wanting more alcohol to feel 'normal' again. Moderation might seem like a good idea, but William argues it's a tough road. Imagine drinking a bottle of wine every night.
Your brain gets used to it and starts craving it from the first sip. That's why moderation feels like a constant battle—you're always thinking about the next drink. Cravings are another hurdle. They start as a simple thought about drinking but quickly turn into a full-blown fantasy. William suggests that the real joy comes from giving up alcohol entirely, freeing your mind from the constant chatter about drinking. William also touches on how alcohol disrupts your sleep cycles.
If you're struggling with sleep, he offers some practical tips to help you rest better without relying on alcohol. This episode is packed with insights that could change how you think about drinking and sobriety. So, if you're curious about why you feel anxious after drinking or looking for ways to break free from alcohol dependency, this episode is a must-listen.