Alcohol
Alcohol is a sedative on the way in and a stimulant on the way out. Rebound anxiety, palpitations and broken sleep are common 6–10 hours after even moderate drinking. People with anxiety often drink to cope, then experience worse symptoms the next day — a classic loop.
Caffeine
Caffeine sensitivity varies widely. For some people, even one coffee triggers palpitations and panic-like symptoms. If you have unexplained anxiety, a 2–4 week caffeine trim is a low-risk diagnostic step. Watch hidden sources: energy drinks, pre-workouts, tea, dark chocolate.
When to ask for help
If alcohol use feels out of control, or you drink to manage anxiety daily, that is worth a conversation with your GP. Treatments for alcohol use disorder are effective and widely available.