295. Why we have vulnerability hangovers

295. Why we have vulnerability hangovers

Have you ever opened up, shared something real, and then immediately regretted it? That post-overshare spiral—the “why did I say that?” dread—is what we call a vulnerability hangover. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind why vulnerability can feel so physically and emotionally intense, even when it’s necessary, honest, and healing.

We explore:

  • The two types of vulnerability hangovers (and why both are valid)
  • Why alcohol, trauma dumping, and people-pleasing make it worse
  • How shame and past betrayals shape our fear of being seen
  • The neuroscience behind your emotional "come down"
  • What to do the day after you said too much
  • How to make vulnerability a tool for connection—not something to fear

Plus, we answer listener questions on post-therapy crashes, drunk confessions, and how to stay open even when it’s hard. If you’re sitting with a case of the cringe, this episode is for you.

ORDER MY BOOK: https://www.psychologyofyour20s.com/general-clean

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episoder(387)

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166. Fantasy bonding - is it love or delusion?

166. Fantasy bonding - is it love or delusion?

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2 Feb 202436min

165. The psychology of anger

165. The psychology of anger

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164. Dating and mental health in our 20s

164. Dating and mental health in our 20s

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26 Jan 202444min

163. Travel burnout

163. Travel burnout

Being able to travel and explore the world in our 20s is such a unique privilege, but sometimes we can overdo a good thing and hit a point of complete emotional, mental and physical exhaustion, causin...

23 Jan 202440min

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