Horror movies are scary. Hangovers can be even scarier. Although a gnarly hangover is the number one thing to avoid, sometimes a drink (or five) may be necessary in order to feel confident in that sexy costume that you post only from the neck-up because your grandma follows you on Instagram. Guilty.
If you aren’t already aware, Halloween 2022 falls on a Monday. This means that most of the parties this year will likely fall on the weekend before — and maybe even during the week (if your school is like that). With that in mind, it’s important to be prepared for the potential Halloweekend hangover.
If you are experiencing a hangover from hell, I got you covered.
Breathe In, Breathe Out
Don’t underestimate the power of a hangover. Sometimes, excess alcohol consumption can cause a little bit of anxiety — or “hangxiety” if you will. According to Drinkaware, drinking can cause panic because of its effects on a brain chemical called GABA. Small amounts of alcohol stimulate GABA and help you feel more relaxed. A few too many drinks, however, can reduce GABA, which causes feelings of panic — if we want to get technical.
If you find yourself experiencing hangxiety, take a couple of deep breaths and remember to relax. Maybe you’re anxious about something in particular — like what you may have done or said to a certain person that you also find very cute — or maybe you’re just freaking out over nothing. Regardless, the best thing you can do is take it easy: breathe in, breathe out, and put on your favorite comfort television show. Sometimes a little distraction is all you need to realize that you were feeling anxious for no reason at all.
Get Hydrated
Most hangover guides will direct you to drink lots of water. Sure, water is great — but there are many other beverages that can help even more after a night out.
Some options include Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier, Pedialyte, Gatorade, or other sports drinks high in electrolytes, which help hydrate and direct nutrients to areas of the body where it needs it most.
Try stocking up on these prior to your Halloween party or event, so you won’t need to drag yourself to the store hungover. After all, hydrating is the most essential part of curing your hangover.
Caffeinate (or Medicate)
Drink some tea or coffee. You don’t need a caffeine headache on top of your hangover headache. Maybe consider (responsibly) taking some ibuprofen or Advil if you’re feeling achy.
A little bit of caffeine helps to boost your energy levels and put you on track to feeling more like yourself again — just make sure that you don’t drink too much. You don’t want to make an already upset tummy even more upset.
Just Relax…Really
If you don’t have to get up for work or school, consider sleeping in, or at least spending some time in the lap of leisure.
Whether or not Halloween parties are your thing, it is always a good idea to be prepared for a potential hangover, at any point in the year. Taking care of yourself is the only way to survive college!