Recovery from addiction is not an easy journey. Perhaps that goes without saying. It will include highs and lows, peaks and valleys, long straight-aways, and sharp turns. It can be a journey that is difficult at times, but also very rewarding. And, if you know that there may be challenging times ahead, then you can plan for having the right support when the going gets rough. However, some individuals who are just beginning their journey of sobriety exhibit a Pollyanna-type of happiness in early sobriety that is known in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as the Pink Cloud Syndrome.
This is the experience of feeling as though everything is wonderful. It’s like being on Cloud 9 at the start of your sobriety because life suddenly feels freer than it did before. The Pink Cloud Syndrome can be common because those who are in their early recovery might at first feel like they’ve found something that is going to rescue them from their problems. The Pink Cloud experience is characterized by unusual happiness and even grandiosity, while real and difficult life challenges continue to exist. However, the danger here is that newly recovering individuals with this experience don’t recognize that they will need to do significant work in order to change their lives. In order for the circumstances in their life to transform, they will still need to do plenty of soul-searching. Westwind Recovery® is here to help those on their recovery journey. Our addiction therapy services help our clients work through their emotions and map out the work that needs to be done.
Emotions During the Pink Cloud Syndrome
Being realistic about what lies ahead can help you plan for the future. While at the start of your addiction recovery you can gather together your friends and family. You might let them know that you’re in recovery now and that you may need their help from time to time. You might also seek the support of a mental health professional, sober living home, drug counselor, or a rehab treatment facility. Here’s what you might run into on the road to recovery that you might need help with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Boredom
- Feelings of loss
- Guilt
- Shame
- Loneliness
- Confusion
- Feeling lost
- Fear
Although you might have these emotional experiences, they are not insurmountable. There is help out there to support you through challenging times. And keep in mind that addiction recovery can also bring you:
- Happiness
- Fulfillment
- Satisfaction
- Feelings of accomplishment
- Excitement
- Joy
- Freedom
- Appreciation
- Self-love
- Healthier relationships
- Discovery of skills and abilities
- Desire to work or volunteer
- Desire to go back to school
- Feeling on track in life
- New way of looking at the world
- Feeling connected to others, yourself, and the world
Recovery for drug and alcohol abuse has many ups and downs. And the downs can be hard, especially if you go through a relapse or experience an event that jeopardizes your sobriety. However, with the right support, planning, and commitment to sobriety, you can make it through the challenges. If you’re at the start of your recovery, do your best to be realistic about your journey ahead. Plan for challenges by gathering support around you ahead of time through family, friends, and support groups.
Addiction Treatment Programs at Westwind Recovery®
From your first step in treatment to long after you leave our facility, Westwind Recovery® is here to help our clients every step of the way.
Our addiction treatment programs include the following options:
- Drug and alcohol detox
- Inpatient drug rehab
- Outpatient drug rehab
- Mental health treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Family therapy
If you’re ready to begin your journey, or if you’re wanting to learn more about the pink cloud syndrome, contact Westwind Recovery® today at 855.340.8832.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
