Coffee is not only a stimulating beverage, it is also a part of our society. Relationships, both personal and business, frequently begin over a cup of coffee, and novels and screenplays are often written in cafes. Coffee is the way many people start their day. But when does a habit become an addiction? Caffeine dependency, or addiction, is a real problem for many people, and it can cause problems such as insomnia, anxiety, acid reflux, stomachaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. If you think you might have a caffeine dependence, try avoiding it for a few days and see if you experience any withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, depression, irritability, nausea, muscle pain or stiffness or the inability to perform regular tasks well.
The stimulating effects of caffeine can sometimes cause physical symptoms and behaviors that look and feel like—and therefore be easily confused with—other disorders. Therefore, it is important to let your doctor or mental health clinicians know how much caffeine you are consuming if you are being assessed for any condition. Plains Area Mental Health takes pride in treating the whole person by assessing both mental health conditions as well as substance use disorder conditions. Call one of our offices today or take our free online assessment found on this website.
P.S. Caffeine can be similar to opioids in the way that increased amounts are needed over time to produce the same effects.