In early recovery you may experience a roller coaster of emotions, including depression and anxiety, but these typically diminish quickly as you spend more time in a sober environment.
If you experience symptoms of depression beyond the first three or four weeks of sobriety, you may have an underlying clinical depression that needs to be treated.
Symptoms of depression may include:
ongoing sad, anxious, or “empty” moods
feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
loss of interest in hobbies and activities
fatigue or low energy
difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
insomnia, early morning awakening, or oversleeping
changes in appetite and/or weight
restlessness and/or irritability
persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, or chronic pain
thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
If you suffer from depression, it is best to treat your mental health symptoms at the same time you are working on recovery. In fact, treating both disorders at the same time will greatly improve your quality of life and your progress.
Action for the Day
Take stock of how you feel today. If you have experienced any of the symptoms of depression listed above, reach out for support. Ask your sponsor for help. Visit your physician and ask for a depression assessment or talk with a therapist.
Thought for the Day
“Acceptance means being at peace with something that once deeply troubled you.”