A panic attack hangover — the exhaustion and discomfort that follows a panic attack — typically lasts a few hours to 1–2 days. The duration can vary based on how intense the panic attack was, how often they occur, and how well the body and mind recover afterward. What is a Panic Attack Hangover? After …
A panic attack hangover — the exhaustion and discomfort that follows a panic attack — typically lasts a few hours to 1–2 days. The duration can vary based on how intense the panic attack was, how often they occur, and how well the body and mind recover afterward.
What is a Panic Attack Hangover?
After a panic attack, many people experience a delayed phase of symptoms — often referred to as a hangover panic attack or panic attack hangover. This is your body and brain recovering from a surge of adrenaline, cortisol, and stress hormones.
Panic Attack Hangover Symptoms
Common panic attack hangover symptoms include:
- Mental fog or difficulty concentrating
- Emotional sensitivity, including mood swings or tearfulness
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Muscle tension or soreness
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams
- Digestive upset, such as nausea or stomach cramps
These symptoms may feel like a mix of emotional burnout and physical exhaustion, similar to recovering from a high-stress event.
How Long Do Panic Attack Hangover Symptoms Last?
- Mild symptoms may last just a few hours.
- Moderate to severe symptoms can linger for 24–48 hours.
- Some individuals may experience waves of discomfort or anxiety for several days.
The more intense the panic attack, the longer the post-attack effects may last.
How to Recover from a Panic Attack Hangover
Recovering from a panic attack hangover involves caring for both body and mind:
- Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods
- Practice deep breathing or grounding techniques
- Get rest, but avoid total isolation if possible
- Move your body with light exercise or stretching
- Limit stimulants like caffeine and alcohol
- Talk to a therapist, especially if panic attacks are recurring
Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication management can help reduce the intensity and frequency of both panic attacks and the aftereffects.
In short: A panic attack hangover usually lasts from a few hours to 1–2 days. It happens because your body needs time to recover from the intense stress response. Self-care and professional treatment can help reduce these aftereffects.