Caffeine withdrawal listed as a mental disorder

Attention all coffee lovers! Feel like you can't even get out of bed without a cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage? The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has listed caffeine withdrawal as a mental health disorder.

DSM-5 says excessive caffeine intake can lead to a condition known as "caffeine intoxication."

You might know the feeling of too many cups of coffee. If you've had more than 250 mg of caffeine (two to three cups of brewed coffee) and experienced pounding heart, incessant talking, shakiness, anxiousness, gastrointestinal upset, red face, and more, than the study says you've been caffeine buzzed.

DSM-5 also mentions the post-intoxication crash. The symptoms include fatigue, headache, and difficulty focusing. If you've ever cut caffeine cold turkey, then you know how extreme these symptoms can be.

Of course, caffeine is not the only chemical that can intoxicate. The DSM groups this disorder with others associated with substances, ranging from alcohol and nicotine to cannabis and hallucinogens. The use of mind-altering substances like these can alter behavior, mental processes and cause physical symptoms.