Social Hangover

The social pressure that weighs on young adults to have full schedules has been normalized to no longer be recognized as an issue. The feeling of having to be on-the-go creates a stigma around taking a break and allowing yourself to rest. For many people, going out and drinking is a fun, social activity – an escape from the real world for one night. When it finally turns to morning, however, guilt and anxious embarrassment creeps over. This feeling has been popularly labeled as ‘hangxiety’, a symptom of drinking too much the night before. Since our fast-paced world does not want to bask in the discomfort it causes, we are programmed against considering what alternatives there are to avoid this feeling.

Mocktails have been shown to be a great alternative to alcohol on a night out. There are several brands based in East Lansing that offer these substitutes, such as Blue Owl, which has cultivated a coffee-based mocktail that promises social relaxation and an energizing buzz. Other brands that offer alternatives are American Fifth – based in Lansing, which offers six different mocktails using their homemade syrup – and a popular brand of non-alcoholic spritzers called Kin, which categorizes itself as a “non-alcoholic spirit for the happiest of hours.” Making the choice to choose these alternatives and recognizing signs of needing a break is justifiable and often needed.

Did you wake up with a pit in your stomach? Maybe the thought of going out later sounds draining, and that’s okay! Everyone’s social battery needs time to recharge.

Some indicators of needing a social recharge include the inability to focus, low energy, irritability and detachment from one’s normal routine. There’s so much pressure in college to follow the crowd and go along with the majority, because everyone seeks peer validation. However, listening to one’s own body and allowing oneself a break can overall improve mood and lifestyle balance. There will always be opportunities to attend events, meet new people and try new things. Prioritizing one’s mental health is the key to a thriving social life. When this is achieved, individuals can strive to gain the most of their night out and make meaningful connections with the people they truly care about. It is important to remember that social hangovers are not only normal but also inevitable, and allowing time to take a break is the only cure.

Style: Emily Seitz Glam: Ava Cortiana and Andie Bahm Photo: Graham Lightle and Maddie Dibley Writers: Nina Cascardo, Nandini Tengil and Emily Seitz Model: Haleigh Herman