The Pink Cloud

A general (not Kratom specific) explanation of the "pink cloud syndrome".

Pink clouding usually begins after withdrawal symptoms have subsided or been managed with medication. However, everyone is different and not everyone in recovery goes through this phase, It can come from a relief from the physical pain, fatigue and illness associated with ongoing use and withdrawal. For many, a few weeks or months is the longest they have gone without active use. While this period of sobriety marks excellent progress, it doesn’t mean a person is cured of their addiction. Signs of pink cloud syndrome include a marked increase in overall positivity about recovery or life in general. People who are pink clouding may experience:

-Elevated mood
-Extreme optimism
-Increased energy levels
-Eagerness to reestablish relationships and activities
-Newfound motivation for everyday tasks
-Optimism toward the recovery process and future
-Increased engagement (and sometimes preoccupation) in recovery-related activities, such as therapy, Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and 12-step work.

But when the pink cloud wears off, post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is to take over. PAWS is a secondary phase of withdrawal. While the intensity of withdrawal symptoms varies from person to person, PAWS are the same for everyone with the same dosage/duration of use (unless they have neurological or mental health problems).

That’s why it’s so important for individuals in recovery to be aware of their triggers (and what potential high risk situations they need to avoid)..