Caffeine is the most common psychotropic or mood-altering drug in modern society, well known for its stimulating effects. According to Southern Illinois University, caffeine can be found in foods such as tea, coffee, soda and chocolate and in over-the-counter medications such as cold remedies, allergy medications and pain relievers. This energizing compound also has other effects on the mood and emotions, particularly in higher doses. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid caffeine because it remains in the body longer.
Irritability
High doses of caffeine can promote adverse emotional and physical responses. Carnegie Mellon University notes that doses of caffeine greater than 2g stimulate the heart, dilates the blood vessels, raises blood pressure and causes bronchial relaxation in the lungs for increased breathing. These physical effects lead to emotional effects such as insomnia, agitation, restlessness and irritability.
Enhanced Mood
According to a study conducted by the University of Western Australia and published in the journal Advances on Physiology Education, caffeine has a profound effect on mood. Subjects in the published study consumed 100mg caffeine and then rated their mood. The results showed that caffeine significantly altered mood to an improved level of energy, wakefulness and general feelings of well-being.
Enhanced Attention
Southern Illinois University notes that caffeine is well known for its enhancing effects on attention and focus. Caffeine helps temporarily enhance attention, flow of thought, improve performance and lift mood. It may also help improve mental focus and performance even in the presence of some emotionally distracting stimuli.
Withdrawal Effects
Like other stimulants, caffeine is physiologically and psychologically addictive. Caffeine withdrawal can cause mild to severe emotional effects including fatigue, lethargy, depression, loss of motivation and anxiety. Johns Hopkins Medical Center advises that caffeine dependency can result in significant distress and impairment in functioning.
References
- Southern Illinois University: Effects of Caffeine and Lateralized Emotional Distractors on Vigilance Performance
- Carnegie Mellon University: The Effects of Caffeine in the Body
- Advances on Physiology Education: Influence of caffeine ingestion on perceived mood states, concentration and arousal levels
- Johns Hopkins Medical Center: Information about Caffeine Dependence
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