Mental Health Effects of Energy Drink Consumption in Young Adults: An Exploratory Survey-Based Study

Title

Mental Health Effects of Energy Drink Consumption in Young Adults: An Exploratory Survey-Based Study

Author

1. SHAIK AKRAM, Student, University Of Central Oklahoma, United States

Abstract

Background: The consumption of energy drinks among teenagers and young adults has seen a significant increase in recent years, raising important public health concerns. These beverages typically contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulant compounds, which may have detrimental effects on mental health, particularly in younger individuals whose brains are still developing. Increasing evidence suggests that frequent energy drink intake could be linked to various psychological symptoms, including anxiety, mood disturbances, panic attacks, and sleep disruption.

Objective: The primary objective of this pilot study was to explore the relationship between energy drink consumption and self-reported mental health symptoms among young adults. This investigation aimed to better understand how these beverages might impact psychological well-being, focusing on anxiety, mood swings, panic episodes, and sleep quality.

Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to a small sample of five individuals aged 17 to 22 years. The survey gathered data on the frequency and amount of energy drink consumption alongside the presence and severity of mental health symptoms. Responses were analyzed descriptively to identify preliminary trends and potential associations between consumption patterns and psychological effects.

Results: Findings indicated that a majority of participants (80%) experienced sleep disturbances, anxiety, and mood swings, while 40% reported panic attacks. Moreover, an increased frequency of energy drink use was correlated with heightened severity of these psychological symptoms, suggesting a dose-response relationship.

Conclusion: Although limited by the small sample size, these preliminary findings align with existing research highlighting the potential adverse mental health outcomes associated with excessive energy drink consumption. This study underscores the urgent need for larger-scale research and enhanced public health education aimed at reducing risks among youth populations.

Keywords

Conclusion

This exploratory study highlights the potential adverse psychological effects of energy drink consumption among adolescents and young adults. Although based on a small sample, the consistent pattern of anxiety, mood disturbances, and sleep-related issues suggests that excessive energy use may contribute to mental health challenges.

Author Contrubution

Shaik Mahamad Akram was responsible for the conception and design of the study, development of the questionnaire, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. The author also drafted, revised, and finalized the manuscript for publication.

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Conflict of Interest

The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest related to this study.

Data Sharing Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the author upon reasonable request. All identifying information has been anonymized to protect participant confidentiality.

Software And Tools Use

Acknowledgements

The author wishes to thank all the participants who voluntarily took part in the survey and shared their personal experiences. Special appreciation is extended to friends and academic peers for their support during the data collection phase. Gratitude is also expressed to the faculty at the University of Central Oklahoma for their guidance and encouragement throughout the research process.