Emotional Hangover If we have an argument with someone close to us, we often think that the matter is over and now everything will be fine. But does this really happen? Many times the other person apologizes, the conversation becomes normal, yet something keeps going on inside the mind. Remembering the same things again and again, getting irritable over small things, feeling heavy or not being able to concentrate on any work… If this happens to you after a fight, then do not ignore it as just a bad mood.

The effects of stress in relationships can persist on the mind and body for some time even after the conversation is over. This experience is commonly called ’emotional hangover’. Just as it takes time for the body to become normal after a party or drinking too much alcohol, similarly the mind may also take time to calm down after intense emotional stress.

What is an emotional hangover?

Emotional hangover is not a formal disease or medical diagnosis. This is a word that is used to explain the effect created after an emotional and stressful event. Suppose you had a heated argument with your partner over some issue. At that time, many things were said in anger, sadness or disappointment. Later the matter was resolved between the two, but the same conversation kept replaying in your mind again and again. You keep remembering why he said that, why I replied that way and I wish I had remained silent and handled the matter at that time. This mental overthinking can sometimes be a part of emotional hangover.

Why does the mind keep going even after the fight is over?

When we go through a stressful situation, our brain does not immediately turn it off and move on. Especially when it is to someone who has emotional value in our life. You may remember something said during a fight again and again. Sometimes we feel bad about what the other person says, and sometimes we start regretting our own words. Sometimes the issue is small, but the insecurity hidden behind it, past experiences or fear of losing the relationship makes the emotions more intense. This is the reason why even after the argument is over, it may take time for the mind to return to normal.

What are the signs of an emotional hangover?

Its experience may be different for every person. Still, if you feel some of these things after a fight, then it may be that your mind has not yet come out of that tension –

– Thinking and overthinking about the same debate again and again

– Keep repeating in your mind what the other person said

– Feeling irritable without any reason

– feeling heavy or sad

– Difficulty concentrating on work

– Feeling like being alone or not talking to anyone

– Overreacting to small things

– blaming oneself again and again

– trouble sleeping

– Feeling of uneasiness or nervousness in the heart

Is there an emotional hangover after every fight?

It is not necessary that every debate does not have the same effect. Sometimes after a small argument the person becomes normal in some time. Some fights can leave a deep impact. If insults, old wounds, lack of trust, relationship fears, or any sensitive issue come up in an argument, the emotional impact can be long-lasting.

How to calm yourself after a fight?

Do not take any big decisions immediately

The mind is filled with emotions immediately after an argument. At such times, do not take decisions like breaking up, separating or sending any harsh messages to the other person. Give yourself some time first.

Recognize what you are feeling

Just saying ‘I’m in a bad mood’ is not enough. Ask yourself what you’re really feeling—anger, sadness, humiliation, or fear? Recognizing the emotion is the first step to calming the mind.

step away from conversation for a while

If the argument is just over, take some space. This does not mean punishing your partner, but giving yourself time to calm down.

divert mind

The mind often gets stuck in ‘what if…’ questions after a fight. If this is happening, try to concentrate on some other work. Taking a walk, taking a bath, reading a book, listening to music, or talking to a trusted person can take your mind in a different direction.

give rest to the body also

The effects of emotional stress can also be felt on the body. Even small things like getting enough sleep, drinking water, taking short walks and eating on time can help you feel normal.