What is Dry Drunk Syndrome?

by greatoaks | May 13, 2016 | Alcohol Abuse

dry drunk syndrome - couple upset - great oaks recovery

Bitterness, discontent, agitation: these are all symptoms of “dry drunk syndrome.”

The Merriam-Webster dictionary has no official definition of dry drunk syndrome. The term “dry drunk” is not even used in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Instead, it is a slang term that developed over the years among AA members to describe someone who is in recovery from alcohol addiction but continues to exhibit the same behaviors and attitudes as they did when drinking actively.

People who enter alcohol addiction recovery without dealing with underlying emotional difficulties, stressors, or trauma that contributed to their addiction often become stuck in a negative cycle of unnecessary lashing out, irresponsibility, moodiness, isolation, resentment, and self-pity.

What can do you for someone who is not progressing in their recovery?

While each person is responsible for their own recovery, a healthy support system can provide the encouragement to resolve the behavioral and emotional issues that many people face in recovery. Getting therapy, reconnecting with their treatment center’s alumni group, and attending community recovery support groups can all help someone find peace in their recovery journey.