The relationship between subjective (arousal and craving) and physiological (heart rate variability) stress- and alcohol cue-reactivity in young adults who engaged in hazardous drinking: a counterbalanced study.
Addict BehavJun 16, 2026 (epub)
Insan Firdaus, Annet Kleiboer, Anne Marije Kaag et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of stress and alcohol cues on craving and heart rate variability (HRV) in 56 young adults with hazardous drinking. The study found that alcohol cues increased craving and HRV, while stress exposure reduced subjective stress but did not affect craving. Notably, HRV reactivity was linked to stable craving levels during stress exposure.
Key findings
- Alcohol cues significantly increased craving in participants.
- Stress exposure followed by alcohol cues reduced subjective stress ratings.
- Alcohol cues increased heart rate variability, while stress exposure did not affect craving.
- HRV reactivity during stress was observed only in participants with unchanged craving.
Why it matters
Understanding the interplay between stress and alcohol cues can inform strategies for managing cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorder, potentially aiding in relapse prevention efforts.