Your first cup of coffee may be doing more than waking you up—it could be giving your mood a significant lift. A new study from Bielefeld University and the University of Warwick, published in Scientific Reports, shows that caffeine consumption is strongly linked to happier, more enthusiastic feelings, particularly in the morning.
Researchers tracked 236 young adults in Germany over four weeks, asking them to complete smartphone-based mood surveys seven times a day. Participants also reported whether they had consumed a caffeinated drink in the previous 90 minutes. Results revealed that positive emotions such as enthusiasm and happiness were noticeably higher after morning coffee compared with non-caffeinated mornings. Negative feelings such as sadness or irritability decreased slightly as well, though this effect was consistent throughout the day rather than morning-specific.
Consistent Effects Across Groups
The mood-boosting benefits of caffeine appeared universal, unaffected by differences in participants’ anxiety levels, sleep problems, or typical caffeine consumption habits. “We were somewhat surprised to find no differences between individuals,” noted lead researcher Justin Hachenberger, suggesting that caffeine’s psychological effects are broadly consistent.
Why Coffee Works
Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, promoting wakefulness and stimulating dopamine activity, which contributes to improved mood and alertness. Still, researchers caution that it’s unclear whether this morning boost is partly due to the easing of overnight caffeine withdrawal symptoms.
A Daily Ritual with a Caution
With about 80% of adults worldwide consuming caffeinated beverages, coffee is a near-universal ritual. Even bees are drawn to caffeine-rich nectar. But while your morning cup may brighten your outlook, experts warn against overconsumption, which can cause dependence and interfere with sleep if consumed later in the day.
