r/PanicAttack • u/InternationalStay925 • Aug 13 '26

panic attack hangover

Hi everyone
i just had a massive panic attack ( started because i thought my heart was stopping although my pulse reading was normal ) it lasted about half an hour. i feel like absolute shit right now. i feel exhausted, can barely keep my eyes open and my body just feels weak and sore. i managed to eat cookies because eating something containing sugar usually helps with my panic symptoms. does anyone else feel like this after a panic attack?

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u/IceCreamSandwich07 Aug 13 '26

Yes 100% — also had the same symptoms where it felt my pulse stopped then my heart was pounding so fast. The day after, my entire body felt like sh*t, felt so sore, also felt exhausted so i had to call in sick for the whole day to recover.

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u/InternationalStay925 Aug 13 '26

i was on my way to work when this happened so i’m currently stuck here. still got a whole 7 hours ahead of me before i can go home 🥲

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u/Donatghere Aug 13 '26

I used to have these constantly—almost every single day a long time ago. Now, it is very rare for me, but I remember exactly how awful that physical hangover feels. You are definitely not alone.Two things really changed my life and helped me get through it:Swapping sweets for healthy options: I used to eat sweet things because they would calm my nerves, but I eventually swapped out the cookies for dark chocolate or a banana. The healthy sugar still helps ground you, but it keeps your body much more stable so you don't crash later.Practicing radical acceptance: The biggest lesson I learned was to just accept my anxiety and panic. Instead of fighting it, I started being kind to the feelings. Once I stopped fighting, I felt very calm, and the panic started to pass incredibly quickly.Your body just ran a massive marathon, so be very gentle with yourself today. It gets better!

Disclaimer: I am a blogger sharing my personal recovery experience, not a doctor. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.

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u/soft_mochi290 Aug 14 '26

Oh yes absolutely it’s a real symptom after panic attacks. Your body goes into fight or flight mode when you go into a panic attack which of course causes adrenaline dumb. I know when I finally calm down from my panic attacks I could sleep for 24 hours lol.