Hello wonderlust.

I think all mood stabilizers affect the GABA neurotransmitters. Usually when the brain suffers chemical imbalances affecting mood, GABA malfunction is to blame since it is an inhibitory neurotransmitter and its job is to reduce neuronal excitability which seems to be the case in GAD and other, mood disorders.

Alcohol and benzos usually act as inhibitory agents so I'm thinking that's why they seem to help.

I really couldn't tell you what may be causing the dysphoria. Still hope this helped a bit. Be well.