The term ‘dry drunk syndrome’ was coined by Alcoholics Anonymous. It is used to describe a set of symptoms that affect someone who has stopped drinking alcohol but continues to display the same dysfunctional behaviors and attitudes as they did during the height of their alcohol addiction.[1]

The Causes of Dry Drunk Syndrome

Dry drunk syndrome has many potential causes. Here are some possible contributing factors:[2]

• Unresolved psychological issues: Alcoholism and other substance abuse are often the products of using alcohol as a way to cope with underlying psychological issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Even after you stop drinking, these issues may go unresolved. This can result in the continued emotional instability and dysfunctional behaviors characteristic of dry drunk syndrome.
• Lack of coping mechanisms: Alcohol is often used as a coping tool for stress and anxiety. When you stop drinking, you may not have developed the healthier coping strategies and self-care methods required to manage these negative emotions effectively. This can result in the persistence of the negative behaviors that are hallmarks of dry drunk syndrome.
• Denial and defensiveness: You may still deny your alcohol problem or be defensive when confronted about your behavior, even after stopping your use of alcohol. The reluctance to acknowledge the need for growth or to seek professional help can hinder your recovery.
• Social and environmental influences: The factors that contribute to alcohol abuse may persist even after you stop drinking alcohol. These influences could include stressors at work, dysfunctional relationships, or environments where alcohol use was rampant.
• Neurobiological changes: Prolonged alcohol use can lead to changes in the brain. These changes can result in issues with mood regulation, decision-making, and impulse control and may persist even after you quit drinking.
• Lack of comprehensive treatment: Successful recovery from alcoholism requires a multifaceted approach that addresses its physical, psychological, and social aspects. If you don’t participate in an ongoing, comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes, you may continue to struggle with these unresolved issues.
• Mental health disorders: In addition to alcoholism, you may also have simultaneously occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. If these disorders are not properly diagnosed and treated alongside alcoholism, they can exacerbate your symptoms of dry drunk syndrome.

The Warning Signs of Dry Drunk Syndrome

Symptoms of dry drunk syndrome can last up to two years after sobriety is achieved.[3] These are a few of the symptoms of dry drunk syndrome:[4]

1. Emotional distress: You may still struggle with emotional volatility, irritability, and mood swings under the influence of dry drunk syndrome. You may experience difficulty managing your stress levels and may display intense emotions like anger or resentment.
2. Behavioral patterns: When afflicted with dry drunk syndrome, you may continue to engage in the same destructive behaviors you did during your drinking days. Examples include dishonesty, impulsivity, or manipulation. These behaviors may strain your relationships with friends and loved ones and affect your recovery from alcohol addiction. This can negatively affect your well-being, as well.
3. Lack of growth: You may stagnate in personal development when under the influence of dry drunk syndrome. This could include avoiding the therapy or support groups that could play crucial roles in your recovery.
4. Denial: You may be in denial about your issues with alcohol or defensive when confronted about your behavior. This is very similar to the behavior you may have displayed when participating in the original addictive behavior. This may make it challenging to acknowledge the need for further treatment.
5. Unresolved Issues: The unresolved issues that cause dry drunk syndrome can further perpetuate your emotional and behavioral struggles.

Managing Dry Drunk Syndrome

Managing dry drunk syndrome requires you to address the underlying issues that contributed to your alcoholism in the first place. Here are some useful strategies for you to help manage your symptoms:[5]

1. Participate in therapy: Engaging in therapy like cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychotherapy can help you identify and address the cause of your addictive behavior. Therapists can also assist you in developing healthy coping mechanisms.
2. Join support groups: Support groups can provide a supportive environment with peers who understand your challenges.
3. Make lifestyle choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques will improve your well-being and reduce the likelihood of relapse or participation in other negative behaviors.
4. Address other disorders: If you suffer from underlying mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma, it’s crucial to seek professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treating these disorders will improve your dry drunk syndrome symptoms.
5. Set goals: Setting and working towards achievable short-term and long-term goals can give you a sense of purpose. This helps you maintain your motivation and focus on your growth and recovery.
6. Build relationships: Developing positive, supportive relationships with friends, family members, loved ones, and peers who encourage sobriety can provide essential social support and prevent the feelings of isolation or loneliness that sometimes accompany recovery.

You Don’t Have To Do This Alone. Treatment and Support Are Available

If you or a family member is suffering from dry drunk syndrome or any substance use disorder, help is available. There are treatment centers and addiction treatment options all over the United States. Prioritize your health and wellness by getting the specialized care and attention you need and deserve.