06-14-2018, 01:44 PM
Having very severe OCD and generalized anxiety I would expect caffeine to have a very pronounced and negative effect on my state of mind/body. Contrary to this expectation, however, I find that aside from a GI stimulating effect (which is welcome first thing in the morning and I believe more related to the coffee itself than it’s caffiene content), my level of anxiety / rumination is no greater or lesser than having abstained from drinking my morning cup(s).
My general understanding is that caffiene, being a weak stimulant, is absolutely likely to cause an anxiety prone inidivisual to experience more pronounced symptoms, assuming they are not already accustomed to/tolerant to a certain level of daily caffiene intake. I’ve read several studies that concluded that the most negative effects of caffiene, like it’s potentially severe diuretic effect, diminish and/or disappear over time.
Also in regard to taking my anxiety medication, I do find that I need SLIGHTLY more than I would if I did not consume any daily caffiene, but it doesn’t feel as if the two substances are directly competing in my body/brain for the same receptor site(s). This is just my understanding/impression, other than the anecdote about long-term caffiene use leading to diminished side effects/efficacy, everything is “original research” or speculation.
My general understanding is that caffiene, being a weak stimulant, is absolutely likely to cause an anxiety prone inidivisual to experience more pronounced symptoms, assuming they are not already accustomed to/tolerant to a certain level of daily caffiene intake. I’ve read several studies that concluded that the most negative effects of caffiene, like it’s potentially severe diuretic effect, diminish and/or disappear over time.
Also in regard to taking my anxiety medication, I do find that I need SLIGHTLY more than I would if I did not consume any daily caffiene, but it doesn’t feel as if the two substances are directly competing in my body/brain for the same receptor site(s). This is just my understanding/impression, other than the anecdote about long-term caffiene use leading to diminished side effects/efficacy, everything is “original research” or speculation.