The relapse rate for addicts is unfortunately high. Staying sober is not easy, though at the beginning it might seem like it is. That’s because of what’s known as pink cloud syndrome.

Addiction is tough on the body. Once the body gets a break, feelings of euphoria will start to set in. These feelings usually come with positive attitudes and energy boosts.

However, pink cloud syndrome won’t last forever. It’s important to be prepared for what happens once it’s gone. Here’s what you need to know.

  1. It Isn’t Bad

The word syndrome is probably a misnomer.

It makes it sound like the pink cloud feeling is a bad thing.

But there’s really nothing bad about feeling good. In fact, it’s a good sign that you are detoxing. It means that things are working well.

You’ll probably start to feel increased energy levels. Positive outlooks are another symptom, and that’s great. You need positivity in your life.

Pink cloud syndrome might just be the push you need to recover.

Everyone’s road to sobriety is different. You should take every positive sign and feeling that you can get.

However, don’t let yourself get lost in the euphoria.

  1. You Still Need Help

The journey doesn’t end here.

In fact, it’s only the beginning. It’s probably a good time to start treatment. That might involve going to a rehab facility.

Intensive outpatient programs are often a better option. There are many benefits of IOP. One of the main ones is the cost.

Rehab centers are not cheap. Outpatient programs cost less money.

It’s also easier to continue working and stay in touch with your family. Inpatient programs don’t always allow visitors. They can feel isolated.

You’re probably not the only one who needs help.

Other people in your family might be struggling with addiction. Or they might need emotional support throughout the process. Staying with them might be a better option than living with strangers.

Even though you feel great, you need professional help. Those who seek professional treatment are far more likely to stay sober than those who don’t.

Seek out the help you need so you can focus on sobriety.

  1. It Doesn’t Last

The euphoric feelings aren’t going to last.

Reality will start to kick in. Life is not all about roses and rainbows.

You will have to face physical and emotional difficulties. Your body is getting a good break, but it’s probably been facing years of abuse. It takes more than a few days or even a few weeks to recover.

Your relationships will need work, too. Whether that means romantic relationships, friendships, or family, it’s not going to be easy. Tough conversations will need to be had.

It’s not easy to get back to a regular work schedule.

Your career has probably taken a nosedive during your addiction. If you still have your job, you’ll need to have tough conversations with your boss.

Start forming good habits while you feel good. Create coping strategies and talk to friends. You need to be prepared for when things get worse.

Find a support group and a therapist you can rely on.

  1. Not Everyone Gets It

Not everyone feels pink cloud syndrome during recovery.

That doesn’t mean that you’re doing things wrong. It just means that your road to recovery is different. Everyone is unique.

Find an outlet to express your frustrations. Start a recovery diary. You can tell anything in a diary.

It’s important to have an outlet. Even If that outlet is just for yourself, don’t undervalue the power of self-expression. You’ve been bottling up your feelings for a long time.

Addiction usually stems from other problems and creates other issues.

Most users turn to alcohol and drugs as unhealthy outlets to deal with stress. You’ll need to find a new way to cope with your problems.

Find whatever works best for you.

  1. It Will Get Better

You need to stay positive throughout the recovery.

Look up stories from recovered addicts. Reach out to other people who’ve struggled with addiction. You are not alone. 

There are many people who recover from addiction. They go on to have rewarding, fulfilling lives. There’s no reason that you can’t be one of them.

Things aren’t going to magically get better, though.

You will have to go through difficulties and face hardships. You’re going to have to put in a lot of work.

But that work will pay off.

Conclusion

Pink cloud syndrome isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s usually the first phase of the road to recovery.