Do you feel exhausted after socializing? Do you need time alone to recover? If so, you may be experiencing an introvert hangover. Introverts need downtime after socializing in order to recharge. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be ashamed of.
In this blog post, we look at what an introvert hangover actually is and we delve into the 15 most common symptoms of an introvert hangover. We also provide tips for recovering from a social outing.
So, if you’re feeling drained and overwhelmed, read on!
What is an introvert hangover?
First, let’s define what an introvert hangover actually is.
An introvert hangover, also known as introvert burnout, is the feeling of being drained after interacting with people for an extended period of time. In some ways, it’s similar to a regular hangover, where your body is exhausted after a night of drinking. But instead of alcohol, introverts are “intoxicated” by social interaction and need time to “recover” afterward.
For introverts, socializing can be especially draining if the interaction is with someone who is very talkative or requires a lot of emotional energy. Or if they spend time with a big group of people. Group holidays, in particular, can be overwhelming for introverts.
Introvert hangovers can last for hours, days, or even longer. The best way to recover is to spend time alone in a quiet place. We’re sharing some additional helpful tips at the end of this blog post, too.
So, if you’re ever feeling drained after spending time with people, don’t worry. You’re not alone. You might just be suffering from an introvert hangover.
15 Symptoms of an Introvert Hangover
Now, let’s take a look at 15 symptoms of an introvert hangover or introvert burnout. If you’re an introvert, you’ll probably relate to a lot of these points!
1. You’re irritable.
One of the key symptoms of an introvert hangover is when everything and anything seems to wind you up. The smallest of annoyances can set you off. Normally, dropping a pen or stubbing your toes are just minor annoyances, but if you’re drained of energy from too much socializing, these things can tip you over the edge. Maybe you’re lashing out at people, crying out of frustration, raising your voice, or just acting out of character. Being aware of this symptom is important because this can lead to problems in your relationships.
2. You can’t make decisions.
A simple choice: pizza or pasta for dinner? You simply can’t choose. Your brain feels frazzled, and you are finding it harder than usual to make even the most basic decisions. This could be a result of introvert burnout! Bigger decisions can make you spiral into a pit of panic and anxiety. You’re overthinking every bit of the decision and getting panicked in the process — this is your brain in its most exhausted and overwhelmed state.
3. You can’t think clearly.
Thoughts crossing? Getting things mixed up? Can’t remember something that just happened? Maybe you’re suffering from introvert hangover-related brain fog. This is a result of your brain running low on energy from overstimulation. Constant conversations, having to focus on the outside world, absorbing the emotions of others, and having to put on a good show can all zap you of your energy. No wonder it makes your brain go fuzzy!
4. You’re tired.
Another sign of introvert burnout is that you’re tired. Like, seriously tired. Your energy has been drained, and you need a 7-year-long nap. Maybe this is a result of those back-to-back plans you’ve had the last few days? You get home from whatever event it was, and you’re physically exhausted and emotionally knackered. Maybe you can’t even muster the energy to do the things that normally bring you joy. Skipping yoga? Can’t focus enough to read a book? If this sounds familiar, it could be a result of an introvert hangover.
5. You just want to be left alone.
It’s natural for people to want to be alone at times, and even more so for introverts! But when you can’t stand being around people, and you’re spending more time than ever isolated, then maybe that’s a sign you’re processing an introvert hangover. You’re canceling plans and ignoring your phone. The only person you get to see is the food delivery guy, and maybe you’re flatmate. These are all signs that your social battery is drained.
6. You feel physically ill.
We all know that your mental state can affect your physical state, so when you’re emotionally drained, this can often lead to physical exhaustion. If you’re feeling achy and lightheaded, this can be down to feeling burnt out from socializing. Perhaps your stomach isn’t feeling great, either. If you relate to these signs, there’s a good chance that they could be caused by your introvert hangover.
7. You can’t relax.
Feeling restless and unable to relax might come across like you’ve got bundles of energy, but that’s not always the case. Instead of having energy and focus, you’re distracted and unable to complete any task. It’s restlessness at its finest! And it’s usually a result of being overwhelmed and exhausted from too much going on.
8. You feel overwhelmed.
If every sound, every sensation, and every decision or question is making you feel like you want to explode, then you may be experiencing an introverted hangover! The slightest sound, the simplest question, or the smallest distraction can be overstimulating for an introvert, even when they don’t have an introvert hangover. So, things like going to the grocery store, giving a presentation for work, or having a conversation with someone can all be too much for someone suffering from introvert burnout.
9. You’re zoning out.
Someone has been talking to you for 10 minutes and you can’t remember a word they’ve actually said. Maybe you’re daydreaming, or maybe you just can’t seem to pay attention to the words. Either way, zoning out can be a symptom of an introvert hangover and is usually an indicator of when our brains are experiencing information overload!
10. You’re feeling anxious.
Too much socializing can push some people’s brains into overdrive. You start to feel nervous, and you’re overthinking everything. Did I offend anyone with what I just said? Did I just laugh too loudly? Was that the right thing to say? Did that person notice I had forgotten their name? You feel agitated and drained from every interaction, and you just want to escape. This can be a result of an introvert hangover, but for anxious introverts, this feeling is often present even when they’re not experiencing introvert burnout.
11. You feel depressed.
For some people, depression is an unfortunate part of their day-to-day life. For others, an introvert hangover specifically can trigger depressed feelings and ignite a depressive episode. When you are feeling run down, and you feel like you don’t have the energy to look after yourself, it can be hard to stay positive and motivated. When these feelings arise, it’s essential to prioritize looking after yourself.
12. You can’t do chit-chat.
You’re getting frustrated at mindless chit-chat. You don’t want to talk about your weekend plans, or what you had for dinner! You just want to be left alone! Sound familiar? This could be a symptom of your introvert hangover. Even though introverts might find small talk draining, they can usually keep up with it. But people who are experiencing an introvert hangover just don’t have any energy for it.
13. You can’t get your words out clearly.
All of your small-talk abilities have gone out of the window, and you find yourself at a loss for words when asked the simplest of questions. This results in panic and embarrassment, followed by anxiety and stress. Your brain is foggy, you’re getting distracted, and it’s hard to speak. These are all signs of introvert burnout. If you’re feeling like this, remember that it’s time to slow it down and recharge!
14. You’re struggling to sleep.
Spending the day with your friends and family is a positive experience in a lot of ways, but it can also be draining. This drain on your energy levels can cause issues with sleep. You struggle to switch off, your brain is overstimulated, you can’t relax your brain, and when you do sleep, you find it hard to wake up. This is just another symptom of an overstimulated, socially drained brain.
15. You’re dreaming of running away.
When you feel drained, exhausted, anxious, and irritable, it can be easy to want to just run away from it all. You’re imagining escaping and being alone in peace. Quitting your job, getting in the car, driving away, and never coming back are things that we all dream about from time to time. But if your social plans are causing you to imagine running away regularly, that’s when you know it’s time to take a step back!
How to cope with an introvert hangover
So now know whether you’re experiencing an introvert hangover. If you are, we have some tips to help you get through this time period and to minimize the risk of you having to go through this again.
The most important step is to listen to your mind and body. Once you get used to identifying the signs of an introvert hangover, you’ll be able to react accordingly.
Here are our top tips for coping with an introvert hangover.
1. Establish boundaries. Set personal limits around how much energy you are willing to expend on social activities and don’t feel guilty about sticking to them.
2. Spend time in nature. Go for a walk or hike in a peaceful outdoor setting and allow yourself to reconnect with your inner self.
3. Get plenty of rest. Make sure you’re getting adequate sleep so that you can feel refreshed and energized.
4. Limit distractions. Take time away from electronics, phones, and television to avoid overstimulation.
5. Practice mindfulness. Take a few moments throughout the day to focus on the present moment, rather than worrying about upcoming tasks or obligations.
6. Make time for creative activities. Spend some time doing something creative and enjoyable that will help you relax and feel recharged.
7. Eat nourishing foods. Fuel your body with nutritious, wholesome foods to support your energy levels.
8. Talk to someone. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member if you need emotional support or just want to talk.
9. Practice self-care. Take time for yourself and do things that make you feel good, like taking a hot bath, reading a book, drawing, or going for a long walk.
10. Don’t overbook yourself. Sometimes, it’s easy to believe that you have no control over your own schedule. You feel obliged to say yes to everything you’re invited to, but it’s important to understand that it’s okay to say no. You might feel guilty, but it’s important to put yourself first.
Recovering from an introvert hangover can take time, but with the right steps in place, you can be back to feeling recharged and refreshed in no time. Learning to set boundaries, practicing self-care, and focusing on yourself can help you to feel like your normal self again, whilst also being able to continue to enjoy socializing with your friends.
Interested to discover more about introverts? You should check out 33 Hilarious Memes That Every Introvert Will Relate To. You can also take a look at How to Understand & Recharge Your Social Battery.
You might also enjoy 21 Books Every Introvert Needs to Read.
