What is it?
Caffeine dependence occurs when regular consumption of caffeine, often through tea, coffee, energy drinks, or supplements, leads to physical reliance. While moderate intake is generally safe, excessive use can disrupt sleep, increase anxiety, and cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped.
What causes it?
Caffeine addiction is usually built over time through habitual use and mental associations. Contributing factors include:
- Using caffeine to combat fatigue, low energy, or poor sleep
- Gradual increase in quantity due to tolerance
- Social and work environments that normalise high caffeine consumption
- Lack of awareness of how much caffeine is being consumed
- Underlying anxiety, which caffeine may worsen
What are the possible symptoms?
Symptoms of caffeine dependence and withdrawal may include:
- Headaches, irritability, and fatigue occur when caffeine intake is reduced
- Trouble sleeping or restlessness after caffeine consumption
- Jitters, racing heart, or gastrointestinal discomfort
- Feeling unable to start the day without caffeine
- Rebound consumption after trying to cut down
What do we do?
Caffeine dependence is addressed by Dr. Prabhojit with a structured, gradual, and supportive approach.
Treatment includes:
Assessment
of caffeine intake patterns and related symptoms
01
Gradual tapering plans
to reduce dependence without severe withdrawal
02
Nutritional and sleep guidance
to restore natural energy levels
03
Behavioural strategies
to manage cravings and replace the habit
04
Stress management techniques
and lifestyle changes to improve long-term alertness and mood
Â
05