Pink cloud or Pink clouding syndrome describes a stage of early addiction recovery involving euphoria and elation.
When one is in this phase, one feels bold and enthusiastic about recovery.
You may picture it as a honeymoon phase.
The main issue with pink cloud syndrome is that it does not last forever, and coming out of this phase can sometimes harm your recovery.
Here is a look at the signs of pink clouding and tips for making the most of this recovery stage.
How to diagnose it
Once a person starts the recovery process and experiences being euphoric, there is no doubt; you are pink clouding.
Once you come through to the other side of withdrawal, followed by specific physical and emotional distress, Unexpectedly, you will start feeling very fine.Â
You will suddenly experience a surge of great ideas and will perceive your future in bright colors.
Pink clouding possibly not happen similarly for everyone, but common feelings and experiences include:
- feelings of euphoria and extreme joy
- a hopeful outlook
- positivity and optimism about recovery
- a calm or peaceful state of mind
- confidence about your ability to maintain sobriety
- preoccupation with the positive aspects of recovery
- commitment to positive lifestyle changes
- increased emotional awareness
- a tendency to overlook the hard work necessary to maintain sobriety
The time it starts and ends
No definitive time span exists that can confirm the exact time when the pink clouding process starts and when it ends.
Many can experience the feeling a few days after starting recovery, while it may kick in weeks later for others.
Also, the lasting of the feeling is inconsistent.
Certain people can feel it for a couple of weeks. Others may find the effect lasts for several months.
Why it can help
Any addiction usually creates havoc and distress in your private life and with interacting with other people.
Often it may also numb your emotions, resulting in feelings of resent.
On the other hand, Pink clouding provides a certain level of perspective change.
For someone who felt down for a long time, it may prove to offer relief, at least for some time.
This phase can result in regain of emotions and excitement again.
Why it may not be so useful
Pink clouding exhilaration can give you the feeling you are doing great and that nothing is going wrong.
One can find himself not giving too much attention to everyday things by thinking of them as unnecessary. Once reality kicks back in, this may do more harm than good.
Final Word
The pink cloud phase of recovery can propel you with confidence and hope, and it’s normal to get caught up in these feelings.
Try to make the most of this phase while it lasts, and use the boost to your mood to prepare yourself for the road ahead.
