If you're reading this post, I'm assuming that you either have ADHD or want to learn more about some of the lesser-known "quirks" that members of the ADHD club, like me, experience.
I find social interaction very draining. I'm constantly masking, and when I'm around certain family members, I feel that there's a certain way I need to carry myself just to make the whole experience easier. So, while attending a family wedding yesterday was great fun, I'm personally feeling the effects today.
My "ADHD hangover" has kicked in, and boy, my body is not my friend. I should mention that I don't drink personally. It makes me so poorly that it's just not worth it in my eyes. Therefore, I know this isn't a normal hangover. It's a social one. I can't be creative today, although half of my brain is telling me to do things. I know if I push myself to do these things, I'll suffer even further. So here I am, writing from bed (again). Let's talk about it…
My ADHD Hangover
I feel like I'm in a state of confusion. I'm exhausted, I'm not hungry, and I have no interest in anything.
What Triggers My ADHD Hangover
Social events, office days, kids' parties (as a parent), shopping in busy places, and doing something completely different from my usual routine.
How I Deal with It
Pre-plan. Make sure, like me, that you have a day of annual leave planned. You need to build your mental strength back up. It's OK and HEALTHY to allow yourself to recharge. Sleep, sleep, and more sleep. Lying in my bed with my curtains closed, watching TikTok, or simply sleeping. A warm bath, then back to bed. Get your favourite snacks in. The fancier the better. Treat yo' self.
Final Points
In my opinion, if you have a busy brain like mine, you have to allow yourself to rest and recover. If you push yourself too hard after an event or a big change, there's a possibility of you going into mental burnout mode, which is one of the worst things us ADHD'ers have to suffer through. So be smart about it, think about the events you have coming up in the future, and make sure you book that babysitter or extra day of annual leave. Your brain deserves it.
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