If you are struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Substance abuse impacts millions of Americans. However, with proper treatment and support, you or your loved one can find lasting recovery. Maintaining sobriety is not always easy and requires significant effort and dedication. Learning healthy coping mechanisms to handle challenges or triggers can greatly improve your chances of lifelong sobriety.
Harmony Haus in Austin, TX, provides luxury sober living homes that help our members adjust to a life of sobriety. Our sober living support services offer the resources and guidance individuals need to continue progressing in their recovery. If you are looking for sober living housing in Austin, consider reaching out to Harmony Haus. Our staff is here to help through every stage of your recovery.
Does sobriety cause depression?
Addiction recovery is a challenging process. Sobriety itself does not cause depression. However, it is not uncommon for someone struggling with addiction to also deal with a mental health condition, which is called a co-occurring disorder. In 2022, about 21.5 million adults in the United States had a co-occurring disorder, and depression was one of the most common mental health conditions. If the mental health condition is undiagnosed, then going through addiction treatment will not help a person’s mental health. Both conditions need to be treated at the same time to achieve lasting recovery and wellness.
Why do some people feel depressed after quitting alcohol or drugs?
While sobriety does not cause depression, some people may feel depressed after quitting drugs or alcohol. Beginning a sobriety journey means altering your lifestyle. This can pose various challenges and lead to feelings of stress or loneliness, which can impact your mental health. Going through detox and withdrawal can also put strain on your body and mind. This can lead to struggles with poor mental health and symptoms of depression. Enrolling in a sober living program can ease some of the mental burdens of sobriety and provide you with a safe environment to continue your journey.
Post-Acute withdrawal syndrome and depression
Post acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS, is when an individual experiences symptoms that last or develop after the initial withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. In many cases, withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous without medical treatment, but they do not last for a long time. When some experiences PAWS, their symptoms linger or begin later on. These symptoms may be more psychological than physical, impacting your mental health.
Some common PAWS symptoms an individual may have are:
- Irritable or hostile behavior
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Difficulty with memory
These symptoms can lead to added discomfort and stress. If you are experiencing PAWS, reach out for help. Receiving professional care can help ease the symptoms and ensure you overcome them safely and effectively.
How to manage depression in recovery
It is important to understand that there can be emotional struggles in early sobriety. Going through recovery takes a toll on not just your body, but your mental well-being as well. If you are struggling with feelings of depression after recently quitting drugs or alcohol, there are tips to help manage them healthily:
- Establish a daily routine
- Practice mindfulness habits like meditating or journaling
- Build a healthy support system
- Take care of your physical health by getting proper nutrition, exercising, and getting enough sleep
- Spend time outside
- Practice self-care
- Attend group therapy or counseling
Feeling depressed after quitting alcohol or drugs is not uncommon, but it is also treatable. Going to therapy, focusing on your sobriety, and practicing healthy coping skills can help you maintain your mental health during the early days of recovery.
Learn more about sober living housing in Austin at Harmony Haus
If you are worried about your mental health or a loved one’s during early sobriety, Harmony Haus can help. Our state-of-the-art facilities and sober living support services provide members with the environment they need to continue on their sobriety and wellness journey. Call us at 877.349.1544 or fill out our brief online form to enroll in our programs.
