Pink clouding, also known as pink cloud syndrome or the honeymoon phase, is a phenomenon that occurs in the early stages of recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. It involves feelings of exhilaration, euphoria, and extreme joy, and the person is overjoyed with their recovery. They feel successful and confident they will remain sober in the future. The natural high people in early recovery experience is similar to the high they felt from using drugs or alcohol. Pink clouding often provides exactly what people need to get their recovery off to a strong start. It gives them the needed shift to a new perspective, the opportunity to look forward to their sobriety, and the motivation to continue their journey to recovery. However, pink clouding can also be dangerous because it can increase the risk of relapse. As people return to their daily responsibilities, such as interacting with family and friends, managing household responsibilities, returning to work, and committing to aftercare programs, they may feel overwhelmed because of unrealistic expectations caused by pink clouding. It is a critical time in the recovery process, and being aware that what they are experiencing is a normal part of the recovery process can help them manage it and reduce the risk of relapse.