There is a term in early recovery you will hear called “The Pink Cloud.”  Many addicts and alcoholics warn of this stage because it can be potentially threatening to your newfound sobriety.  Once you have decided to get clean and sober and gotten through painful withdrawals, you will be feeling great.  Before you chose sobriety, you may likely have hit your “bottom.”  This refers to feeling the worst you could possibly feel, mentally and physically.  Hitting bottom is what makes most addicts and alcoholics seek treatment and sobriety.  Conversely, early sobriety is the opposite and you may be at an all-time high.  

The pink cloud, in many ways, can be beneficial, so long as you realize it is temporary.  Once you are starting to put the puzzle pieces of your life back together, it can feel empowering and provide an intellectual high.  You probably won’t be embarrassed of your actions and behaviors anymore.  Friends and family members that have cut you off in your using days, may begin to reconnect once you’re clean.  It may seem as though all things are falling into place and life is bliss.  The pink cloud is beneficial in teaching you to like sobriety.  Many addicts and alcoholics are terrified to get clean and sober because they are worried about what life will be like when they do.  Yet, you will develop freedom and will know happiness.

Many people who have begun the journey of recovery can develop a false belief and think sobriety will always be this way.  Yet, nobody promises you a better life.  Recovery simply guarantees that you will be free from mind altering substances.  The rest is up to you.  When the euphoria of early sobriety ends, many are left empty and begin to seek feelings of elation again.  Addicts and alcoholics like to feel good.  That is why they used in the first place.  The void that the pink cloud leaves can be painful, if you give it merit.    

Newcomers to sobriety can be thrown a curveball when the bliss of the pink cloud ends.  Knowing its temporary place in life will help you overcome its abandonment.  Life on life’s terms will show up, whether you are prepared or not.  Understanding that the purpose of sobriety is continued sobriety and not blissful happiness, will help you get over the hump once the cloud has floated away.  

The Kimberly Center is a place for healing. We welcome you to our treatment programs for substance dependence and abuse where the number one goal is restoring your or your loved one to live a healthier, happier, and more productive life. A life free from substance dependence and destructive behaviors waits. Call us now for information on our programs of treatment and start your journey today: 855-452-3683