Understanding The Dry Drunk Phenomenon

By Author: Jill Cohen
Total Articles: 79
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Do you have a loved one who suffered from alcoholism and has now recovered? What does it mean to be a dry drunk? Dry drunk syndrome is an informal expression used in a few ways. It can mean that someone no longer drinks and yet needs to live in vigilence due to the fact that he can slip again. Sometimes the phrase is meant to indicate that the person no longer drinks but still exhibits the same type of behaviors as before. It can also be used to mean a person who doesn't drink, and never had a history, yet has similar behaviors to someone who has or had a drinking problem.

Many recommend therapy for those with a history of drinking because unless the root of the habits is broken, similar behaviors can occur. This makes sense in the context of a dry drunk: Someone can have stopped drinking yet still be impulsive, have lots of insecurities and behave in ways similar to the past. We don't like to change easily. Getting to the root of low self-esteem creates a whole inner change of energy and one's sense of self. Without that, inside the person may just be controlling himself rather than getting to a new level.

Alcoholics ...
... anonymous uses the term dry drunk in a specific way. A person may have discontinued drinking yet hasn't faced themselves and undergone the twelve steps of healing. Part of the steps involves turning to a higher power, making ammends for the past and realizing one is powerless. Those that are not comfortable with alcoholics anonymous philosophy disagree about this analysis. They would say that if someone has improved their life, they may not need to be involved in something spiritual to stay sober.

Anyone in recovery, whatever the approach, needs to be involved in watching what they eat, getting exercise and cultivating good habits. Support and being able to speak to others is important. Good habits replace bad ones and then the past tendencies fade away. Taking steps to reinforce one's sobriety is very important and have new patterns is critical for success.

Find out more about Alcoholic Intervention and Alcohol Damage .