We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol. You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance. If you are a medical doctor, clinician, or other professional in a field related to this topic and find errors or inaccuracies within this content, please contact us at

Failure To Change Coping Mechanisms

Medications might be prescribed to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other conditions, complementing other treatment modalities. In group therapy, individuals in recovery can learn from and find inspiration from the experiences and progress of others. Dry drunk syndrome is an actual psychological phenomenon that can easily happen to anyone who is struggling with addiction and who is not fully focused on their continued recovery. You may have heard the term “dry drunk” thrown around in conversations about recovery and sobriety, but what does it really mean? It’s a concept that’s both fascinating and crucial for anyone touched by the journey of overcoming addiction.

What Causes Dry Drunk Syndrome?

A “dry drunk” is someone who is sober but continues exhibiting unhealthy habits similar to when they were drunk. However, the reality is that it takes more than being sober to overcome alcohol addiction. Recovery from alcoholism is a long-term process that can be bumpy at times, even when a person is not drinking. Dry drunk syndrome is a term used colloquially within the recovery community to describe a constellation of symptoms experienced by individuals in early recovery from addiction. Additionally, part of substance use disorder rehabilitation is to build up one’s support system with friends, family members, and addiction treatment professionals to help maintain sobriety. Both perspectives serve to distance the individual from those around them, suggesting that they are different and that normal rules don’t apply.

What Is Dry Drunk Syndrome?

1. Since 1968, our goal has been to help individuals achieve a life of sobriety free from addiction.
2. Or, your mood could turn aggressive, and you may snap at your friends and family.
3. When a heavy drinker quits drinking, their brain must adjust to the chemical damage that alcohol has caused.
4. Without treatment, you lose the chance to identify trauma, mental health conditions, and instill positive coping skills.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a 12-step program for those struggling with alcohol abuse. Many of our patients mistakenly believed that quitting drinking is the end of their problems. However, true recovery involves a deeper exploration of the issues that led to your substance abuse in the first place. If you find yourself feeling restless, irritable, can drug dogs smell nicotine or discontented, you may be experiencing dry drunk syndrome. Recognizing this condition is the first step towards recovery, and at CenterPointe Recovery we can guide you.

If you notice a loved one struggling in their early sobriety and exhibiting signs of dry drunk syndrome, the best plan of action is to encourage them to continue treatment. Loved ones must remember that they have no control over the alcoholic’s behavior, feelings, and demeanor. High expectations for a “new life” can contribute to dry drunk syndrome. In the journey toward recovery and sobriety, you might encounter terms that seem baffling.

Sharing your experiences with others in group therapy who have faced similar challenges can foster connection and reduce feelings of isolation. Find support groups near you and commit to attending them for long term recovery. The first step in overcoming dry drunk syndrome is to acknowledge your feelings and experiences.

Dry drunks may also act as if they are above going to addiction support groups like AA and 12-Step programs. They may refuse to go to therapy and be in denial of their need to address factors that triggered or contributed to their harmful drinking habits. When a person receives the right treatment, that is more likely to be the case.