The Social Hangover: Understanding and Overcoming Social Exhaustion
Social interactions can be exhausting. This article explores the 'social hangover' – its symptoms, causes, and how to manage it. Learn self-care strategies and find support.
Imagine this: You're in a bustling city centre, meeting friends for coffee. The cafe is alive with chatter, music, and the clatter of cups. You're trying to follow the conversation, but your mind is racing, your senses are on overload. By the time you get home, you're utterly drained. This is the "social hangover."
It's a feeling many of us know all too well: that wave of exhaustion that washes over you after spending time in a stimulating social environment. But it's more than just simple tiredness. It's a distinct phenomenon I call the "social hangover" – a state of mental, physical, and emotional depletion that can linger for hours or even days.
This article delves into the depths of the social hangover, exploring its symptoms, causes (including the impact of neurodiversity and lifestyle choices like sobriety), and, most importantly, providing practical strategies to help you cope and prevent it.
