Editorial policies
HangoverHeadlines.com adheres to journalistic and ethical standards adapted for our unique blend of humor, personal narrative, and advocacy. We draw inspiration from established codes like the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) while prioritizing sensitivity in addiction-related topics.
Seek Truth and Accuracy
All factual elements in stories—events, quotes, statistics, and real-world references—must be accurate. Humor amplifies reality but never fabricates it.
Personal stories are fact-checked where possible and presented authentically. Exaggeration is allowed for comedic effect only if clearly hyperbolic and not misleading.
Writers are treated with respect. However, HangoverHeadlines.com will not—as a general rule—publish anonymously unless otherwise directed by the Editor-in-Chief.
The HH team will review each submission for indicators of AI-generated content.
Infuse Humor Responsibly
Content must be funny and entertaining, deploying satire, absurdity, and personal wit to illustrate the downsides of drinking without preaching.
Humor “punches up” at cultural norms, excessive drinking, or systemic issues—never down at individuals struggling with addiction. HH avoids reinforcing stigma through derogatory language (e.g., no terms like “drunkard” or “junkie” unless reclaimed by the writer).
Person-first language is prioritized (e.g., “person in recovery” or “person with alcohol use disorder”) to reinforce our shared humanity and hope.
Minimize Harm and Promote Hope
Stories highlight recovery as possible, empowering, and community-driven. We balance ridiculous tales with messages of rethinking habits or seeking help.
Sensitive topics (e.g., relapse, overdose, trauma) are handled with care, avoiding graphic details that could trigger or glorify harm.
HH represents ALL diverse voices and underrepresented communities in recovery to foster inclusivity.
Editorial Independence and Integrity
HangoverHeadlines.com is independent; editorial decisions are made solely by the team, free from advertiser or external influence.
Conflicts of interest are disclosed. Contributors with personal ties to recovery programs or advocacy disclose them transparently.
Sponsored or affiliate content will be clearly labeled and never compromises our anti-drinking policy.
Fairness, Transparency, and Accountability
We correct known errors promptly and prominently.
Reader feedback is welcomed.
Satirical elements are crafted to be recognizable as humor and avoid misinformation.
Content Guidelines
Accepted Formats: Personal essays, satirical pieces and interviews, and short humor vignettes centered on drinking mishaps, culture, or recovery journeys.
Tone: Witty, irreverent, empathetic—laugh-with, not exclusively laugh-at.
All submissions undergo editorial review for alignment with our mission, humor quality, and ethical standards.
These standards ensure HangoverHeadlines.com remains a trusted, impactful voice—proving through laughter that sobriety is smarter, stronger, and funnier than the alternative.
The HH editorial team reserves the right to evolve these guidelines as needed to best serve our readers and community.
