Addiction causes a lot of pain, hurt, and grief, and sometimes people think that in recovery, everything will be different. Life in recovery is much better, but there are still highs and lows. When you’re body and mind are adjusting to life without drugs or alcohol, you’ll likely experience a mixture of highs and lows, and some people experience a short period of elation and euphoria known as the pink cloud. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pink cloud, what it is, and how to handle it.
What is the Pink Cloud?
For addicts, a new lifestyle of living sober is refreshing, which can result in a natural high during the early days and weeks of new sobriety. This natural high is often referred to as the “pink cloud.” The term originated in AA, and it’s something most recovering alcoholics and addicts are aware of. The pink cloud is often referred to as the “honeymoon phase” of sobriety and is short-lived.
What Does the Pink Cloud Feel Like?
For those who experience the pink cloud, a feeling of happiness, confidence, and success is commonly described. Many describe the feeling of floating in the clouds, thus the name. It’s said the pink cloud is a result of the fog lifting after years of substance abuse. The person can see clearly and experience life in a new sensory way.
How Long Does the Pink Cloud Last?
Although many would love to always feel the way they do while in the pink cloud, the feeling doesn’t last forever. The pink cloud can last for days or even weeks, but the duration is different for every person. Some report that the pink cloud comes and goes at different stages in the recovery process.
Is the Pink Cloud Dangerous for Recovering Addicts?
As great as the pink cloud sounds, it does pose some significant risks during recovery. It’s important to realize what the pink cloud it and enjoy it, but don’t think this is how you’re always going to feel. Some dangers include:
- Unrealistic Expectations – The strong feelings of euphoria, hope, and joy you may feel in the pink cloud are good, but they can create an unrealistic expectation about what sober life feels like. It’s important to be aware of the temporary effect of the pink cloud and understand it.
- False Sense of Security – It’s great to feel secure and confident in sobriety, but a false sense of security and confidence can be dangerous. Being overconfident about your ability to stay sober can lead individuals to believe they can maintain sobriety on their own without any support.
- Disappointment – When the natural high fades away, the disappointment can lead some people to feel hopeless, depressed, and discouraged about sobriety. These feelings can lead to relapse, especially if the individual lacks proper support.
The Keys to a Lasting Recovery
After detox or rehab, it’s easy to be overtaken by the pink cloud. The key to lasting recovery is ongoing support and a commitment to the treatment process. No matter how motivated you are, you need help to stay sober. A healthy living environment, an ongoing treatment program, and peer support are the keys to a successful and lasting recovery.
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol or other drugs? Call us to speak confidentially with a recovery expert now: (901) 521-1131 or visit our website serenityrecovery.org