Do You Know the Signs of Being a Dry Drunk

dry drunk

Have you or someone you love stopped drinking and yet are still swept up in the emotional baggage that may have fueled your addiction to begin with? Do you notice yourself becoming sour, impatient or complacent in your recovery? Have you begun isolating yourself from your support network? Are you backsliding emotionally, experiencing some of the same negative and destructive attitudes and feelings you did during active addiction?

If so, you are far from alone. And there’s even a term for it, called dry drunk syndrome, which was originally coined by the creators of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Dry drunk syndrome is most common among those who choose to get sober on their own, without a professional support team guiding them through the recovery process. That said, anyone can become a dry drunk, especially during the emotionally charged early stages of recovery. And if left unmanaged, it can sabotage your sobriety.

Dry Drunk Disorder: What to Look Out ForYou don’t become a dry drunk overnight; the mentality typically develops slowly with some telltale signs, including the following as outlined by Psychology Today.

  • Growing resentment toward friends or family
  • Anger and negativity surrounding recovery
  • Depression, anxiety and fear of relapse
  • Jealousy of friends who are not struggling with addiction
  • Romanticizing more and more about drinking days
  • Becoming self-centered or self-obsessed
  • Replacing drinking with a new vice and/or addictive behavior (e.g., sex, food and internet use)

Commit to Your RecoveryThe best way for you or someone you love to deal with dry drunk syndrome is to stay steadfast in your recovery. At NorthStar Transitions, we offer clients a full continuum of care, from medical detox to outpatient treatment. To learn more about our alcohol rehab and specialized addiction treatment services in Boulder, CO, call us today: 303-625-6335.

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