question about depression on the day after drinking a lot?

Question

The day after I get drunk, I usually have a mild hang over. You know, I'm sort of sluggish and dehydrated. That's about it.

But emotionally, I feel really depressed and almost guilty about something. It's a heavy dreary feeling. The first few times this happened, I kept feelin like I had done something wrong. But now, I realise it just happens after I drink a lot. There must be a chemical cause to this awful feeling associated with hang over. Does anyone else have these effects or know what causes it?

(Also, I drink an appropriate level of alcohol. I get really drunk on those occassions when others are drunk too- for example at a wedding or a holiday or a party. Friends and family drink a lot, but I'm not talking about regular boozing)

I'm not asking for advice. I know it is a depressant and I know that I could obviously just not drink to avoid the feeling.

I'm asking why I feel that way. What is the cause? There must be something chemical happening.

Answer 1

Well alcohol is what is called a "depressant," which might explain it. If this is impairing your daily function talk to a psychiatrist.

Check the source for a lot more detailed explanation.

Answer 2

Alcohol by its very definition is a depressant. Why not quit the booze the next time there is a get together and see if there is a post party depression; if not than blame it on the beverage.

Answer 3

Alcohol is a depressant. The neurotransmitters in your brain change. Your body is left dehydrated. If you know it makes you feel as such, expect it. It happens to a lot of people. If you cannot handle it, I would suggest stop drinking, especially if you have or have had difficulties with depression or suicidal thoughts.

Answer 4

I know exactly what you mean. In the past when I'd consume too much I felt my body saying "How could you do this to me? Youre supposed to take care of me, not trash me out!" and that's what caused me to feel depressed and guilty from too much alcohol. Please, please!! listen up to your body. Rmember, alcohol is a depressant and now your body speaks almost in protest. In the meantime swimming and working out will help you fell better and realize how your emotions are affected by the way we treat our bodies. And do something positive to remind you of the good person you really are.

Answer 5

Its all part of the hangover really. If it just happens after you drink a lot and you dont like feeling like that, cut back the amount you drink. You probably dont have to cut back much, just enough to stop this happening!

Answer 6

alcohol is systemic depressent.. meaning chemically it depresses every part of your body. It's important to make sure you rehydrate well the next day and that may help the depression.

Answer 7

Drop the booze.