How do I tell the difference between depression and early-recovery blues?
From the RecoveryHome team. We write some questions from situations people often ask us about, and answer them with general information from public health sources. Been through this yourself? Your answer could help the next person who finds this page. How we write team posts
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
asked 2 days ago
Low mood is common after stopping alcohol or drugs. When is it more than that?
RH
RecoveryHome team Team
answered 2 days ago · general information, not medical advice
Some low mood in early recovery is very common, as the brain and life adjust. It often comes and goes, and it tends to improve over weeks.
It may be depression if, for two weeks or more, most of the day, nearly every day, you have:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in almost everything
- Big changes in sleep or appetite
- Very low energy, or feeling slowed down or restless
- Feelings of worthlessness or heavy guilt
- Trouble concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Either way, tell a doctor or counselor. Depression is common alongside substance use, and it's very treatable with therapy, medication, or both. Treating it can lower relapse risk.
If you're having thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, call or text 988 right now, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Read more: Co-occurring disorders explained
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