Alcohol and hangovers
Investigating the psychological, behavioral and neurocognitive aspects of alcohol use and alcohol hangover.
In this research area we aim to generate high-quality research to understand psychological, behavioral and neurocognitive factors related to alcohol use and alcohol hangover. To conduct our research, we utilise a range of advanced research techniques. We use computerised batteries to assess cognition, neuroimaging to measure brain function and structure, and an array of biological tests to determine markers relevant to alcohol and alcohol hangover.
Our research comprises clinical trials, national and international online surveys and field studies. We collaborate with leading international scientists and work with national and international industry partners to generate original and high-quality research.
Our studies
This clinical trial examined the effects of alcohol hangover on cognitive multitasking, stress reactivity and mood. We found that mood and multitasking ability were significantly impaired, and participants reported significantly greater levels of mental demand, effort and frustration in the hangover condition. However, cognitive stress did not elicit changes in mood and/or stress levels, suggesting that mood states were already too low to change further.
Contact
Dr Sarah Benson
+61 3 9214 5212
This online survey assessed alcohol use and negative alcohol-related consequences according to the type of alcoholic drinks consumed and student status. We found that those who consume alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AMED) consume more alcohol than those who don’t use AMED. But those who do mix, drink less and experience fewer negative alcohol-related consequences when mixing compared to when drinking alcohol without energy drinks. These findings suggest that AMED use is one manifestation of a risk-taking personality. We also found that non-students drink more alcohol and are involved in more negative alcohol-related consequences than students.
Contact
Dr Sarah Benson
+61 3 9214 5212
Alcohol Hangover and Multitasking: Effects on Mood, Cognitive Performance, Stress Reactivity, and Perceived Effort. doi:10.3390/jcm9041154
Effects of Alcohol Hangover on Cognitive Performance: Findings from a Field/Internet Mixed Methodology Study. doi:10.3390/jcm8040440
Attentional and working memory performance following alcohol and energy drink: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, factorial design laboratory study. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0209239
Updating the Definition of the Alcohol Hangover. doi:10.3390/jcm9030823
Consumption Patterns of Alcohol and Alcohol mixed with Energy Drinks in Australian Students and Non-Students. doi:10.3390/nu12010149
Our research in the media
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- Health
New research shows how hangovers reduce brain function
Hangovers reduce brain function and memory, according to new Swinburne research.Thursday 01 August 2019 -
Does a hangover reduce concentration?
It's no secret that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a morning of headaches, dizziness and nausea. Now, a team of our scientists have revealed why concentration can also suffer while nursing a hangover.Saturday 31 August 2019 -
The science of hangovers: Everything you need to know
Hangovers are the worst. They’re unpredictable, unpleasant and, in the case of sparkling wine, seemingly unavoidable. Dr Sarah Benson, a post-doctoral research fellow at our Centre, explains why we get hangovers and if you can, in fact, beat them.Tuesday 17 December 2019 -
Why do my hangovers feel worse as I get older?
Professor Andrew Scholey and Dr Sarah Benson discuss how age factors into alcohol severity.Sunday 21 October 2018
Contact the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology
There are many ways to engage with us. If your organisation is dealing with a complex problem, get in touch to discuss how we can work together to provide solutions. Call us on +61 3 9214 4444 or email chp@swinburne.edu.au.