For many of us, coffee is a necessary part of our daily routines.
It helps us wake up in the morning, get through our workdays, and stay alert while completing even the most mundane of tasks.
We often joke about being “addicted” to our caffeine fixes, but for some people, the effects of caffeine can be much more profound.
In fact, there is a known connection between caffeine and anxiety, and if you are someone who struggles with anxiety, breaking the caffeine habit could be life-changing.
Here are just a few of the ways that caffeine can contribute to anxiety:
It increases heart rate and blood pressure.
When we consume caffeine, our bodies go into a state of “fight or flight.” This means that our heart rate and blood pressure increase, and we become more alert and focused.
While these effects can be useful in certain situations, they can also cause anxiety and panic in people who are already prone to these issues.
It can disrupt sleep.
If you’ve ever had a cup of coffee too late in the day, you know how difficult it can be to fall asleep at night.
This can be particularly problematic for people with anxiety, as lack of sleep can exacerbate anxious feelings and make it harder to cope with stress.
It can trigger physical symptoms of anxiety.
Caffeine is a stimulant.
It causes physical symptoms that are similar to those of anxiety. These can include jitteriness, restlessness, and feelings of being “on edge.”
If you struggle with anxiety and are looking to make positive changes in your life, cutting out caffeine could be a great place to start.
Here are some tips for breaking the caffeine habit:
Gradually decrease your caffeine intake.
Going cold turkey can be difficult, so try cutting back slowly over the course of a few weeks or even months.
Start by eliminating one cup of coffee or tea per day, then gradually decrease from there.
Pay attention to how you feel.
As you cut back on caffeine, pay attention to how your body and mind are reacting.
You might notice that you feel less anxious, more rested, or just generally more in control of your emotions.
Be gentle with yourself.
Breaking any habit can be difficult, and it’s normal to experience some cravings or setbacks along the way.
Be kind to yourself, and acknowledge the hard work that you’re putting in.
Experiment with alternatives.
There are plenty of delicious beverages out there that don’t contain caffeine.
Try herbal teas, hot chocolate, or even just plain water. You might be surprised at how tasty and satisfying non-caffeinated drinks can be!
I found a wonderful decaf coffee from a coffee roaster here in Pennsylvania.
I love flavored coffees and was having a hard time finding flavored decaf coffees until I was introduced to Java Momma.
They have such a wonderful selection of decaf coffees and teas!
I loved them so much I decided to become an independent barista – mostly for the discount!
If you are interested in learning more about these coffees that have helped me kick the caffeine habit and have still allowed me to be able to enjoy the coffee that I love – here is the link!
If you struggle with anxiety, cutting out caffeine might not be a magic bullet that solves all of your problems.
However, it is worth considering as part of an overall strategy for managing your anxiety and improving your mental health.
You are worth it!