Is it normal to feel worse before I feel better in recovery?

Yes, it's completely normal to feel worse before you feel better in early recovery support, and understanding this can help you push through the difficult initial period. Your brain and body have been relying on substances to function, and they need time to readjust to operating naturally. This temporary worsening can show up in many ways: increased Anxiety disorder or Major depressive disorder, difficulty sleeping, feeling emotionally raw, or experiencing physical discomfort. You might also feel like you've lost your primary coping mechanism without having developed new ones yet. This can make everyday stressors feel overwhelming. The good news is that this phase is temporary. Most people start noticing improvements in how they feel around 30-90 days, though everyone's timeline is different. Your brain is literally rewiring itself, developing new neural pathways and restoring natural chemical balance. This healing process takes time but it does happen. During this challenging period, be extra gentle with yourself. Focus on basic self-care practices" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Self-care: eating regularly, staying hydrated, getting as much sleep as possible, and moving your body gently. Consider this time an investment in your future wellbeing. If you're feeling significantly worse or having thoughts of self-harm, reach out to a healthcare provider immediately. Sometimes underlying mental health conditions become more apparent in early recovery journey, and addressing these with professional help can make your healing process journey much more manageable.