Going to therapy for the first time can be a lot of things, before the session you often have doubts and uncertainties as to how the whole process will go, you overthink and wonder what will be the right thing to say. After the session, you feel a sense of relief because you have offloaded all that you had to and you’re glad it went much better than you anticipated.
However, you can also start having crippling emotions of anxiety and self-consciousness because you’re afraid you said too much and exposed yourself, experts call this vulnerability hangover. All these ups and downs are part of your healing process and your way to a better well-being, you just need to embrace each step as you go.
Choosing Therapy explains that a vulnerability hangover “Occurs after individuals are open and honest with others about their feelings.1 While expressing emotions truthfully is good, sometimes a person may feel they have shared too much.” It is further mentioned that this emotional exhaustion can be particularly pronounced in introverts and highly sensitive individuals, who may struggle to balance the pros and cons of vulnerability.
“For some, vulnerability leads to pulling back from others to protect themselves. Being open can generate physiological responses including a rapid heartbeat, sweating, shakiness, or feelings of nausea.”
According to The Do More Agricultural Foundation, a vulnerability hangover can lead to the fear of judgment, emotional exhaustion, and overthinking. The initial fear of rejection can trigger self-doubt, states the above source. “The vulnerability hangover often leads to overthinking and questioning our decision to be vulnerable. We may analyze the consequences and worry about how others perceive us.”
The Happiness publication suggests that to overcome a vulnerability hangover, it’s crucial to identify your feelings and emotions, adjust your perspective, and use acceptance to prepare for all possibilities. Furthermore, the publication mentions that it’s essential to label thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and actions that trigger a vulnerable hangover.
“Another effective method to stop worrying and free your mind of fear of judgment and embarrassment is to mentally zoom out or step back and consider the scenario afresh. Is someone really judging you for the views you expressed, or are you simply imagining they might judge you for the same?”
It’s important to take time to recharge after sharing, the journey is never linear, and sometimes slowing down or taking a step back can reveal a new path. Heart On My Sleeve suggests that if you’re still feeling vulnerable, seeking reassurance from a trusted confidant can help ease your mind.
Also see: Children need therapy too, here’s why…
