Author: James Anderson
Pink Cloud: The Euphoria of Fresh Sobriety
More specifically, case studies2 have revealed that people with depression may experience brief episodes of pink cloud syndrome. In these episodes, they feel intense pleasure and experience symptoms like racing thoughts and reduced need for sleep. In the addiction treatment field, pink cloud syndrome has been described1 as a situation that occurs in early recovery. It makes a person feel euphoric in their newfound sobriety and incapable of seeing just how vulnerable they are to relapse. When a person experiences pink cloud syndrome, they stop making a conscious effort to maintain their sobriety. They can become complacent and carefree, which can make them more vulnerable to triggers for drug use.
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Engage with outpatient or intensive outpatient treatment for the most flexible and affordable pathway to recovery. You may be more open to connecting with loved ones and mending broken bonds. Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health.
How Long Does the Pink Cloud Last?
Recovery is not a destination but a lifelong journey, and the Pink Cloud is just one phase. Being prepared for the emotional ebbs and flows that come with long-term sobriety can make all the difference. If you’ve recently started your recovery process and are feeling pretty great, you’re probably pink clouding. Although the pink cloud sounds like a very positive thing (and it certainly can be), the term is often used in a negative way. Typically, people in long-term recovery are more aware of the potential dangers of the pink cloud than those who have less experience in sobriety.
If you haven’t felt optimistic or excited about life in a long time, you might feel even more enticed by this vision of what life can look like. This can help avoid a relapse, which can happen because of significant emotional changes. Instead, focus on one or two changes you really want to make, and let go of what you think you should do. There will be plenty of time to tackle other self-improvement projects in the future. The good things in life will still be there; they don’t fade when the euphoria does.
- Overconfidence can lead to complacency, making you less vigilant about your recovery efforts.
- This sensation was initially observed in individuals participating in AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), a program for those in recovery from alcohol use disorders (alcoholism).
- Because they feel so positively during this stage, they may be in denial of the fact that they may be faced with triggers that put them at risk of relapse.
- While life in recovery is much more rewarding, it’s not always flowers and sunshine.
Think of it as a honeymoon phase, says Cyndi Turner, LCSW, LSATP, MAC, the co-founder and clinical director of Insight Into Action Therapy in Virginia. Patrick has tremendous empathy and compassion for the recovery community, being in recovery himself since 2018. Patrick is uniquely qualified to be helpful because of the specific combination of his academic background and his own experience in recovery.
Navigating the Pink Cloud Safely
The Pink Cloud can last from a few days to several months, depending on individual factors and the support systems in place. During this phase, you’re probably also getting back into touch with your emotions. It can feel exhilarating to experience things like hope, joy, and excitement again.
I’ve been working in the addiction and mental health field since 2013 and decided to enter the field after overcoming my own challenges with addiction. Growing up in Louisiana with addiction running rampant on both sides of my family. A life away from drugs and alcohol seemed impossible for someone like me. I remember what it was like sitting across from someone thinking there is no way they could ever understand what I was going through. Some may experience it days after completing detox, while for others, it may take weeks.
Pink Cloud Risks in Early Recovery
People recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction still have mental health issues that make them vulnerable to relapse. Although it can affect the recovery process, pink cloud syndrome can help many people continue to stay sober. We spoke to Sarah Jeffreis, the founder of First Aid Course Newcastle, for their insights and expertise on pink clouding. According to Jeffreis, pink clouding is a short-term period of hyper-positive feelings among people in early recovery. The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper offers comprehensive addiction treatment for drug and alcohol addictions and co-occurring mental health conditions. Preventing the risks that come with pink clouding is an important part of getting through the early recovery phase.
I am a licensed social worker.In my scope of practice I have worked in the areas of mental health and recovery for thirty years. The clients I have worked with in my career have ranged in age from seven to seventy. This is also a great time to connect with others going through a similar process who might be able to offer more insight about pink clouding and how to handle the road ahead. You can work with a therapist who specializes in addiction treatment, or follow a different treatment plan while also working with a therapist to address other challenges in your life. The problem with pink cloud syndrome is that it doesn’t last forever, and coming out of this phase can sometimes have a negative impact on your recovery. In short, the pink cloud is nice while it lasts, but it can also hinder long-term recovery, especially if it goes on for an extended period of time.