The withdrawal symptoms of addiction are just one of the obstacles to recovery. Another challenge addicts in recovery can face is euphoric recall. Although not a physical craving, euphoric recall can lead to relapse when not dealt with properly.
This article will explain what euphoric recall is, how to know if you’re experiencing it, and how to take care of it so it doesn’t get worse or cause a relapse.
Avenues Recovery is here to guide you through every stage of drug and alcohol addiction, from awareness to long-term sobriety.
Euphoric Recall Definition
What is euphoric recall? Euphoric recall for alcohol or drugs is when an addict in recovery remembers the fun, happy times associated with their addiction, while forgetting about the terrible impact on the brain, body, and relationships that their addiction causes.
In other words, the person may experience ‘selective memory,’ where they wrongly romanticize their addiction, and long to once again experience the pleasant emotions and sensations that are inherent in addiction, while failing to recall the damaging aspects.
Why Does Euphoric Recall Occur?
Scientifically, euphoric recall happens because of the changes to the brain caused by drugs and alcohol. Excessive misuse of substances alters the hippocampus in the brain- a part of the limbic system that controls our memory formation, storage, and retrieval.
Although ceasing to use drugs and alcohol could reverse some of the damage to the brain, it may take time for the memory function to fully return, resulting in euphoric recall for a while after the start of recovery. Most recovering addicts experience euphoric recall mostly at the start of recovery, with it occurring less and less frequently as the hippocampus recovers.
Impact of Euphoric Recall In Addiction Recovery
The euphoric recall meaning refers to when addicts experience selective memory, recalling the fantasies and positive associations of active addiction without the rest of the story.
For example, you may be hanging out with some friends at a party and watch them all use drugs or alcohol and have a great time. You may start to wish you could have a good time with these substances, too, and remember the times you spent using substances with friends fondly. Without a clear memory of how destructive drugs or alcohol were to your life, you may find yourself dangerously close to a relapse.
The reality is that drugs and alcohol do cause users to experience short-term pleasure, euphoria, and excitement. Especially if you’re accustomed to using substances at every party or celebration, it could be extremely difficult to remember, at all times, how you felt the day after- the shame, self-pity, disgust, hangover, and other adverse physical and emotional side effects.
Dangerous Effects of Euphoric Recall
Another dangerous effect of euphoric recall is that the recovered addict may start to justify their substance abuse as a positive thing. They can experience distorted thinking and convince themselves that the time they were using substances, they performed better at work, school, or in their relationships.
Although it’s certainly true that drugs and alcohol can sometimes improve performance, boost motivation, and increase confidence, addicts use substances in an extreme and unhealthy way. This means that although they can sometimes be useful in certain ways, addictive substances are dangerous and cause tragic side effects in the long term.
Signs of Euphoric Recall
You know you’re experiencing euphoric recall when you think about the time you used drugs or alcohol fondly. It often happens at a social event where others are using drugs or alcohol, but it can start randomly, too, like when you’re sitting at a restaurant and noticing the alcohol being served.
Here are some signs of euphoric recall to be aware of:
- Positive thoughts associated with addiction
- A lack of negative memories of addiction
- Overconfidence in ability to manage the addiction without complete abstinence
- A sudden desire to end recovery
- Inability to concentrate
- Quickened heart rate
- Depression or despair
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Fantasizing
How to Overcome Euphoric Recall
Overcoming euphoric recall quickly is crucial to remaining sober. Here are some ideas to help you overcome euphoric recall:
- Reach out- It’s vital to call a sober friend, your sponsor, or your therapist and share what you’re experiencing. A sober friend or mental health professional will know how to help you stay grounded, so the chances of relapse decrease dramatically.
- Ground yourself- Euphoric recall is defined by fantasizing and allowing your brain to enter an alternate reality. Bring yourself back to reality by practicing grounding techniques. For example, sit on the floor, drink something either hot or cold, or go for a walk in the sunshine.
- Recall the negatives- Shift your thoughts to the other half of the story- all of the negative consequences of active addiction. You can ask a friend to help you recall the story properly. You can also write it down so you have it for future reference.
- Be grateful- Think about everything sobriety has given you. Be grateful for the stability of sober life, and the healthy, sober people who support you. Be thankful for the many parts of your life that have improved since you’ve quit your harmful behaviors.
- Pray- If you can, pray to surrender your thoughts. Admit your powerlessness over the euphoric recall and ask God to help you overcome it without losing your sobriety.
Avenues Recovery Can Help You Overcome Euphoric Recall
If you or your loved one is a recovering addict experiencing euphoric recall, know that it’s normal. You’re not doing anything wrong- you’re simply experiencing one of the side effects of recovery. Be vigilant and aware so you can recognize the signs and use the tools you need to overcome them. Additionally, with time, the frequency and intensity of the euphoric recall will lessen, so hold tight.
Whatever stage of addiction or recovery you are at, you’re always welcome to join one of our Avenues Recovery rehabs to find the professionals, support, and assistance you need to remain on the path of sobriety. Our expert staff have helped over 40,000 individuals with addictions, and they can help you too. At Avenues we provide ongoing support to our clients after they have finished rehab, with our fantastic alumni program that dramatically increases the chances of staying sober. Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community, and to stay sober and strong.