The Economic Times

Hanging out with friends was fun, but now you feel more lonely: Psychology explains why this common emotional crash happens

Spending time with friends does not always leave people feeling happier. Sometimes, an enjoyable gathering is followed by loneliness, sadness or an unexpected drop in energy. Psychology points to several possible reasons, including mental exhaustion, overthinking conversations, social anxiety and the pressure to hide parts of yourself to fit in. But why can being surrounded by people still leave someone feeling emotionally disconnected? The answer may lie in the difference between socialising and feeling genuinely understood.