The Hormonal Hangover: Why You Feel Flat After a Big Day
Hi MObster, It’s Leah here, founder of The HOuse of Hormones, delivering you your dose of weekly wellness tips!
Have you ever woken up the day after a birthday, a big work event, or even just a jam-packed family weekend feeling… meh? You weren’t drinking, you slept okay-ish, and yet—your energy’s gone, your mood’s off, and your body feels like it’s run a marathon. Welcome to the hormonal hangover.
It’s real. And no, you’re not being dramatic.
What is a hormonal hangover?
A hormonal hangover is that low, flat, foggy feeling some women get after periods of high stress, social intensity, or emotional output. It’s not caused by alcohol (though that doesn’t help), but by the chemical aftermath of your body being “on” for too long.
Whether it’s a hen do, a product launch, or just a Saturday spent hosting kids' parties and mediating sibling squabbles, your body responds to stimulus and stress the same way: by releasing cortisol, adrenaline, and dopamine.
And here’s the kicker: once those levels drop, especially after extended output, you can feel completely drained.
Why do women feel it more? Hormones don’t work in isolation. They’re a network, and for women, that network is influenced by the menstrual cycle, sleep, nutrition, and yes, mental load.
In the luteal phase (the week or so before your period), you’re already more sensitive to stress and overstimulation. Add a high-energy event on top, and your nervous system takes a hit.
Progesterone is also doing its thing: rising, falling, shifting, which can make post-event recovery feel heavier than it might for others. That sluggish, teary, “why-do-I-feel-like-this?” day is often just your body asking for rest.
Do any of these sound familiar?
You’re shattered the day after “fun”
You crave sugar, carbs or quiet
You feel low or a bit weepy without a clear reason
You snap more easily or just feel overstimulated
It’s not a lack of gratitude or resilience. It’s biology. Hormones are brilliant, but they don’t love being overworked. No need for a juice cleanse or drastic measures....
Think: nervous system reset:
Eat something grounding – Protein, healthy fats and slow carbs. Think eggs on toast, salmon and greens, or a warm stew.
Hydrate – Especially if you’ve had caffeine or sugar highs to keep you going.
Don’t overschedule – Give yourself permission to do less the day after a big one.
Gentle movement – A walk, some stretching, or even 10 minutes of deep breathing can regulate cortisol and help rebalance. Sounds boring but please trust me!
Go low-stim – Less scrolling, fewer notifications, more quiet. Put your phone in a drawer!
Sleep – Your body needs to repair. Don’t fight the early night.
So next time you feel that emotional dip after a high-energy day, don’t beat yourself up. It’s not weakness, it’s hormones doing their thing. You’re not lazy, or overly sensitive. You’re just human, and likely in need of a little more you time.
Look after yourself
Lots of love
THOH
x
Save the Date: Big MOB Mum Meetup x House of Hormones – 12 September
We’re so excited to share that we are planning an exciting Big MOB Mum Meetup in collaboration with House of Hormones, happening on Thursday 12 September, 9:30–11am at CRATE Walthamstow. It’s completely free to join, and we’ve got lots of exciting things planned to help you understand your hormones, support your wellbeing, and connect with other amazing mums. Whether you’re navigating the hormonal hangover or just want some time to recharge, you’re so welcome.
Save the date and stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to see you there!
About Mums Who Build
Mums Who Build is a supportive community for female founders, women in business, and mums starting or growing their own ventures. We empower mothers to rebuild their confidence, learn practical skills, and create financial independence through free mum meetups in London, expert-led workshops, and resources focused on wellbeing, connection, and financial fitness. Whether you’re launching a business, returning to work, or exploring flexible careers, Mums Who Build offers a space to learn, share, and thrive. Join our growing network of ambitious women and discover events, peer support, and inspiration to help you build the life and future you want in motherhood.
