Mood swings can occur at any point in a recovering alcoholic's life and they are very common in early recovery.
Many people experience mood swings during alcohol detox, but their mood swings may extend beyond their time at a center for alcoholism detox in Stuart. Mood swings can be triggered by stress, chemical changes in the body, or major life changes. Even if you have been sober from drinking for years, mood swings in sobriety can still be dangerous.
The Link Between Mood Swings and Alcoholism Relapse
There are several stages of mental and physical states that are linked to alcoholism relapse and mood swings are often one of the earliest stages of relapse. There is a strong connection between mood swings and alcoholism relapse, but you can combat mood swings without drinking to stay on track in sobriety.
What Causes Mood Swings in Sobriety?
Chances are, you focused on drinking to quell your emotions when you were trapped in the cycles of alcoholism. But in sobriety, people cannot use crutches like drinking or drugs to mask their emotions. Mood swings can happen during detox, but they can also happen in normal, everyday situations in sobriety. When sober and free of drugs, mood swings can still happen. Sobriety mood swings are often caused by1:
- Stress
- Hormonal imbalances
- Monthly hormonal changes
- Pregnancy
- Life changes
- Anxiety
- Existing mental health disorders
While mood swings can happen, you don’t have to hide behind drugs or alcohol to cope. Uncontrolled mood swings can be a precursor for relapse, so it’s important to keep emotional stock and recognize mood swings when they occur so you can combat them.
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How to Address Mood Swings
When you are experiencing mood swings, there are several things you can do to regain control of your mood or emotions. You can practice art therapy to refocus your energy, artistic expression can help regulate mood. If you are experiencing mood swings in early recovery and you fear relapse, you can also check in with your sober alumni group or sponsor for guidance and support. If you do fear that you may relapse, it is crucial to get back into a treatment program to reduce the risk of relapse.
Practicing balance in your daily life can help reduce the likelihood of mood swings and alcoholism relapse. This means sticking to sleep, diet, and exercise routines along with maintaining a reasonable schedule. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to recharge, whether that be through self-care, meditation, or other relaxing activities.
Call 888-280-4763 for more guidance from our Banyan Detox Stuart team.
