We all have different relationships with alcohol and for some of us that can be more problematic than others.
There are millions of people worldwide with alcohol problems, with the governement in the UK estimating there are over 600,000 adults with a dependence in England alone. For many, they are getting the alcohol help they need and moving towards recovery, while others are far from that.
There are other, slightly more complex states of a relationship with alcohol too, with “dry drunk” also a common problem. It’s perhaps a term you may not be aware of, but delve into the details and it may sound all too familiar, whether that be in yourself or amongst loved ones or friends.
So, let’s delve into the details. Here’s all you need to know about “dry drunk” syndrome…
Table of Contents
What Is “Dry Drunk” Syndrome?
Let’s start with what the syndrome is. Effectively, “dry drunk” is a description of someone who no longer drinks alcohol but hasn’t really addressed the reasons and issues as to why they developed an addiction in the first place.
While it’s great that a person has abstained, often things like irritability, resentment and mood swings can be prominent, essentially still showing the signs and struggles of addiction, but without the booze.
What is important to state is that “dry drunk” isn’t a medical prognosis. It’s more something highlighted within addiction recovery circles and is believed to originate from AA. However, it is a clear trend and problem many people live with.
Common Characteristics
It can be relatively straightforward to identify “dry drunk”, with a number of common traits. These include:
- Irritability and anger: Even minor frustrations can provoke disproportionate reactions.
- Resentment: They may harbour bitterness about their need to stop drinking or feel jealous of others who can drink socially.
- Self-pity and victimhood: A tendency to dwell on perceived injustices or misfortunes is common.
- Dishonesty or secrecy: Though no longer drinking, they may engage in other forms of dishonesty, undermining trust.
- Unrealistic expectations: Some may assume that sobriety alone will solve all their problems, leading to disappointment when life remains difficult.
- Risk-taking behaviour: Without alcohol as an outlet, some may seek unhealthy substitutes such as gambling, overeating, or impulsive spending.
These symptoms, like when drinking, can not only have a big impact on someone’s life, but also can cause problems in employment, amongst friends and in relationships, as well as increasing the risk of relapse.
Why Does It Happen?
We’re perhaps more aware that addiction can be driven as a result of things like stress, trauma, anxiety and other complex conditions. People turn to booze as a way to cope. It’s all well and good removing the booze as a coping mechanism, but the truth is those underlying problems still remain.
Therefore, it’s important to address them or problems will persist and either alcohol will be returned to, or a person will suffer with such issues in another form.
The Importance of Emotional Recovery
It’s why getting help with addiction is really important, as it’s far from just abstaining from alcohol. It’s about dealing with the problems and things in life that have driven someone to drink in the first place.
Recovery programmes are all about self-reflection and developing healthier coping mechanisms for the trauma, stress, or whatever it is, in their life. Simply stopping drinking doesn’t address that.
Counselling, CBT, support groups and structured treatment programmes can all help identify the negative thought patterns that have contributed towards addiction and help you replace them with healthier ways of dealing with them.
Supporting Someone with “Dry Drunk” Syndrome
For partners, family members, or friends, dealing with a loved one in this state can be difficult. The key is to encourage open communication and support while setting clear boundaries.
Gently reminding them that recovery is an ongoing process, not a single achievement, can help. Encouraging participation in therapy or support groups may also provide the guidance needed to move forward. Importantly, loved ones should also seek support for themselves, whether through counselling or family-focused recovery groups.
Getting Beyond “Dry Drunk”
One of the positives of “dry drunk” is that a person has been able to abstain from alcohol. Which is a huge step in itself, and a big part of the recovery journey. However, it’s important to recognise “dry drunk” to be able to get the help to deal with the other, more complex issues around addiction.
With the right support, a person can move beyond just abstinence and towards genuine emotional recovery, finding healthier ways to combat stress, rebuild any relationships that might be broken and, essentially, move towards a much happier and healthier lifestyle.
