The most contradictory feelings await a person addicted to alcohol and drugs on the way to a sober life. One of them is called “pink clouding” or “pink cloud”. We will tell you in detail what it is and how to act at the first signs of its appearance.
Are you or your loved one suffering from drug or alcohol addiction? Everyone deserves a second chance. You can get all the help you need at the New Breath Recovery rehab center. Here, under the supervision of doctors, patients undergo comprehensive treatment around the clock — making the most difficult step towards recovery.
What is a Pink Cloud?
Such a romantic name was coined for the state that occurs in almost any person who has been suffering from any addiction for a long time, but has managed to overcome the acute phase of withdrawal syndrome. This is euphoria, catharsis, faith in the future and even elation.
The term “pink cloud” is often used in AA communities to understand what stage of recovery a person is in and to provide adequate support.
Signs of Pink Cloud Syndrome
How do I recognize this condition? It is most likely to occur during the first stage of recovery after the painful withdrawal symptoms have passed. After that, the person in contrast to the previous pain and suffering begins to feel great: he or she has overcome what seems to be the most difficult stage of treatment — it is possible to move on with life.
The main signs that a person is in the pink cloud state are:
- a feeling of joy and happiness;
- an extremely positive outlook on the world around him, where there is no place for gray colors;
- confidence that the treatment is successful and almost completed.
With the right approach, this mood helps, but sometimes relapse can occur after sobriety. Therefore, it is necessary to work through this state with a psychologist or in group therapy.
The Pink Cloud in AA and Recovery Programs
The emotional high after overcoming cravings for drugs or alcohol reaches its peak, but always fades at some point. Good mood is useful in any recovery process, regardless of the disease. But it needs to be channeled in the right direction – to work on yourself.
One of the easiest and most accessible ways is to visit the communities of alcoholics or drug addicts anonymous. In this environment people are at different stages of recovery, each of them shares their experiences and worries. This helps to look at life more objectively and not resort to deliberate avoidance of negative thoughts – it helps to take off the rose-colored glasses.
Another approach involves regular visits to a psychologist and psychotherapist to continue participation in a recovery program. Specialists are able to help you sort out your feelings and learn to live without distorting reality.
Why Pink Clouds Don’t Last
The main causes for the development of pink cloud syndrome is long-term substance use. During this time, the body has reorganized itself, and drugs or alcohol have become vital to it. They give him a sense of relief, albeit temporary.
Further, having decided on treatment, a person experiences suffering: satisfaction with life is sharply reduced. But the withdrawal symptoms sooner or later pass, and the bad state is replaced by a good one. This can be compared to a person who has a high fever causing headache, muscle and joint pain. When the body temperature goes down, the person feels relief. But this does not mean that he has already recovered.
The longer a person has been using psychoactive substances, the longer it usually takes to cope with the withdrawal syndrome. And the longer it takes to feel relief from the detox phase that has passed.
If the pink clouds do not go away quickly — this is normal and is solely due to the psycho-emotional state of the person and the length of time they have been using substances.
Coping Strategies After the Pink Cloud
Here are some tips to help you avoid depression and refrain from substance use after the pink cloud phase:
- learn more about your addiction and rehabilitation options. Focus your energy on learning about effective treatment programs and objectively assessing your current state. Together with your psychiatrist, make a treatment plan and follow it strictly — step by step;
- maintain positive feelings. The pink clouds will “go away” sooner or later. This will happen in a week or a few months. Afterward, it may not be easy. So difficult that you may want to go back to drugs or alcohol. Tell your future self about how you see your life now, be supportive. Start a journal and share in it your experiences about your pink cloud state and sobriety. It really helps;
- set achievable goals for yourself. Try to avoid drastic changes that you would never have decided to make before your addiction. Act on your rehab program, get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, watch your diet, learn meditation, exercise;
- re-establish social ties or build new ones. AA and other communities dedicated to fighting various forms of addiction can help you with this. Do not neglect communication with family and friends.
The main thing at this stage is to find a balance. Do not run away from the problems that other people face everywhere, do not only what you like, but also what you need at the moment.
Conclusion: Navigating the Pink Cloud in Your Sobriety Journey
Remember that the pink cloud in recovery from any addiction is only one step in rehabilitation. Unfortunately, it still doesn’t mean that you are omnipotent and able to handle drug or alcohol cravings on your own. You need a helper. And that helper can be New Breath Recovery Clinic.
Over many years of practice, hundreds of patients have passed through our treatment center. In 24/7 mode, each of them was provided with the necessary medical care: from detoxification to individually selected psychotherapy program. We are aware of the difficulties an addicted person has to face. Therefore, we work through each stage of rehabilitation, preparing them for possible difficulties on the way to a sober life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
– What is the definition of the pink cloud?
It is a state of euphoria caused by the fact that the addiction is behind us. It is accompanied by excessive optimism, a one-sided view of life and ignoring difficulties.
– How long does the pink cloud phase last?
It usually starts as soon as the last symptoms of withdrawal disappear. It can last for weeks or months — it is different for everyone. But it always goes away.
– Is the pink cloud a good thing?
It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer. This state, on the one hand, is a well-deserved reward for overcoming the painful withdrawal syndrome, on the other hand, it does not allow you to look at your addiction objectively.In other words, after a sharp rise, there can be a painful fall.
The meaning of pink clouds in the healing process cannot be underestimated, as it imparts unbridled energy and a special outlook on life. However, the support of AA or psychotherapists is also essential.
– How can I stay sober after the pink cloud passes?
You need to realize that this moment will come sooner or later and you need to prepare for it.This means that even at the stage of emotional recovery it is important to continue rehabilitation and socialize with a support group. This will prevent potential relapses.