Caffeine Consumption and Anxiety

The average person consumes the drug caffeine on a daily basis. That’s right, caffeine is a drug. That is often forgotten because caffeine consumption has become so normalized in our culture. It is almost surprising to us if someone does not consume caffeine to help them through their daily routine or if a public location does not have some available for customers to buy. Now, this is not necessarily a bad thing. So long as caffeine is consumed at a controlled and healthy amount with natural ingredients, caffeine can be a useful tool to help people focus and stay motivated to use their time productively.

            When consumed at large amounts or with other harmful ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners and sugars, caffeinated products could actually cause a decline in your physical and mental health. Caffeine falls under the drug category of stimulant. A stimulant is a class of drugs that speed up messages traveling between the brain and parts of your body. This is what causes an increase in energy and alertness. They also stimulate the central nervous system and cause the body to produce adrenaline. The increased production of adrenaline can cause someone to feel anxious or nervous. Because of this, it is proven that consuming large amounts of caffeine on a regular basis can produce anxiety or enhance anxiety in people with pre-existing anxiety disorders.

            Do your best to regulate your caffeine consumption and rely on more natural sources rather than artificial energy drinks and soda. One great source of natural and controlled caffeine is organic green tea or matcha (powdered green tea). Another great source is mushroom coffee. Mushroom coffee is ground up mushrooms that not only contain caffeine but also ingredients that have other health benefits such as stress reduction, inflammation reduction, immune system support, and improved focus, memory and mood. It tastes just like actual coffee made from coffee beans! Give it a try!

            If you wish to learn more about other contributors to anxiety or other ways to combat your symptoms, call us at Olive Branch Counseling Associates at 708-633-8000. Our professional therapists offer a variety of services both in person at our office located at 6819—167^th St. Tinley Park, IL 60477 or via telehealth. Book your appointment today!

Myleigh, undergrad intern, 2025

Olive Branch Counseling Associates

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10867825/#:~:text=Caffeine%20is%20a%20stimulant%20that,et%20al.%2C%201992).