Menu Close

How To Handle A Hangover At Work: Simple Tips For A Smoother Day

england fans celebrate

Ever stayed out a little too late celebrating and found yourself clocking in the next day feeling worse for wear?

When the festivities spill over into a workday, a throbbing headache and queasy stomach can make being productive feel like a distant dream.

While there’s no quick fix for a hangover at work, there are a few strategies that can help you face the day with a little more ease.

Unfortunately, there’s no magic cure for a hangover, but there are some things you can do to make the day a little less painful…

1. Drink water

Water Diversity GIF by Chloe x Halle - Find & Share on GIPHY

Hydration is your best friend when you’re battling a hangover at work. Alcohol can deplete your body’s water levels, which may intensify headaches and overall malaise.

Keep a large water bottle on hand and sip regularly to stave off those unwanted side effects.

2. Have something proper to eat

If your stomach’s churning at the thought of breakfast, it’s still worth trying to eat something nourishing. A balanced meal of wholegrain toast, eggs, and fresh greens restores essential nutrients your body craves after a night of overindulgence.

If solids are too much, consider easy-on-the-stomach alternatives like broths or soups—they provide hydration and nutrients in one soothing package.

3. Take some ginger

Feeling nauseous? Ginger has a long-standing reputation for easing queasiness. Brew a cup of ginger tea and add a dash of honey and lemon for a comforting, belly-friendly remedy.

This simple ritual can help calm that uneasy feeling so you can focus on the tasks at hand.

4. Plan a power nap

Time Nap GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

Alcohol can disrupt sleep, leaving you groggy when your alarm goes off. If you have the flexibility to do so—especially if you’re working from home—schedule a quick 20-to-30-minute power nap to recharge.

If you’re in an office, see if there’s a quiet corner or unused room where you can briefly close your eyes. Just be sure to set an alarm so you don’t oversleep.

5. Avoid coffee or hair of the dog

Coffee may seem like the quick wake-up you need, but be warned: caffeine can heighten jitteriness and potentially worsen dehydration.

As for pouring yourself another drink in hopes of staving off a hangover at work—this typically just delays the inevitable. Instead, focus on water, healthy meals, and giving your body a little time to recover.

While there’s no instant cure for overindulging, these tips can help make facing a hangover at work a little less daunting.

By rehydrating, nourishing your body, and allowing yourself strategic downtime, you can still get through the day—no matter how late you stayed up celebrating.