Key Points

  • Dry drunk syndrome is a set of symptoms people with alcohol addiction experience when they abstain from drinking.
  • People with dry drunk syndrome may behave the same way they did when they were drinking.
  • Anxiety and anger are two commonly experienced effects of dry drunk syndrome.
  • People with alcohol use disorder or underlying psychological issues are more at risk of developing dry drunk syndrome.
  • Dry drunk syndrome can be addressed using self-help methods and professional treatment options.

Long after an individual stops drinking, they may experience behavioral or emotional changes that make it difficult to function. They may have trouble thinking, sleeping, or regulating their emotions. Although this is a common manifestation of alcohol withdrawal, it can also be part of a phenomenon called dry drunk syndrome. Although the American Psychiatric Association does not officially recognize the term, and it is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), some organizations use it to describe the psychological and mood effects associated with alcohol withdrawal. Here, you will discover the origins of dry drunk syndrome, its signs and symptoms, and the best treatment methods.

Dry Drunk Syndrome Identification

Dry drunk syndrome is commonly observed among individuals with alcohol use disorder who are undergoing alcohol withdrawal.[1][2] Despite being a regular occurrence during this phase of recovery, their loved ones may mistakenly believe that the individual has resumed drinking, leading them to withdraw their support. The term “dry drunk” was originally coined by Alcoholics Anonymous to describe individuals who continue to exhibit behaviors associated with drinking even though they have stopped consuming alcohol.[3] However, this term is no longer used within the organization.

How Does Alcohol Abuse Cause Dry Drunk Syndrome?

Alcohol is a highly addictive substance that slows down the function of the central nervous system.[4] When a person consumes alcohol, their brain releases feel-good hormones, leading to a sense of relaxation. This pleasurable effect may lead some people to use alcohol as a way to cope with stress or anxiety. The more they drink, the more they are rewarded with a euphoric response. Unfortunately, this trains their brain to associate drinking with relief from discomfort. Alternatively, when they try to stop drinking, their brain struggles to regain its natural balance. This can result in an increase in stress hormones, making it challenging for them to resist the urge to drink again. This cycle is particularly prevalent among individuals with alcohol use disorder and those who quit drinking abruptly without sufficient support or follow-up care.[1]

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Dry Drunk Syndrome?

In many ways, the traits of being a “dry drunk” are similar to those of being under the influence of alcohol. They include both mood and behavioral traits, though some people will also experience physical symptoms.

Mood Symptoms

When you stop drinking alcohol after misusing it for some time, your brain may struggle to regain balance. This occurs when the brain becomes dependent on alcohol but no longer detects its presence. As a result, you may experience a number of mood-related symptoms including:[5]
  • Irritability
  • Impatience
  • Restlessness
  • Hopelessness
  • Boredom
  • Anxiety
  • Excessive worrying
  • Resentment
  • Anger
  • Frustration
  • Difficulty focusing
Some people experience these symptoms back to back, and others experience them over time.

Behavioral Symptoms

A person with dry drunk syndrome will experience various behavioral changes. They might struggle to express their feelings to family and friends and inadvertently direct their stress toward them. Additional behavioral symptoms include:[5]
  • Impulsive behavior
  • Explosive temper
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Being dishonest
  • Being preoccupied with thoughts of using alcohol
  • Judging or blaming yourself for how you feel
  • Difficulty sticking with alcohol treatment programs
  • Feeling jealous of individuals who recovered without going through dry drunk syndrome
  • Feeling anxious about how your life will change without alcohol
It isn’t uncommon for someone with dry drunk syndrome to become so frustrated with its symptoms that they use maladaptive coping strategies to feel better. This might involve a new or worsening gambling habit, watching more television than usual, or a preoccupation with video games.

Is Dry Drunk Syndrome Self-Treatable?

Dry drunk syndrome is a common experience during the recovery process, and though it’s a natural part of healing, it can still be challenging to navigate. If you’re facing mood swings or behavioral changes due to dry drunk syndrome, there are strategies you can use to support yourself through this difficult time.[3] They include:[3]
  • Engaging in self-care, such as increasing hydration and exercising.
  • Using mindfulness coping strategies such as grounding or breathing exercises.
  • Engaging in a new hobby, such as painting, journaling, or gardening.
  • Reciting positive affirmations as a form of self-love.

Attending Alcoholics Anonymous 

It may also help to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to overcome the stress of dry drunk syndrome. Alcoholics Anonymous is a voluntary peer support group for individuals struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction.[6] Members are completely anonymous, and meetings are held in person and online. For more information or to find an Alcoholics Anonymous group near you, visit aa.org.[7]

What Are the Treatment Options for Dry Drunk Syndrome?

When self-care isn’t enough to overcome the negative aspects of dry drunk syndrome, it may be time for additional support. This is especially the case for individuals with co-occurring mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Supportive treatment options for dry drunk syndrome include those for alcohol use disorder.[5] They are:[5]
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Contingency management
  • Motivational enhancement
These programs are available as standard services or integrated into an addiction treatment program.

Who Is at Risk of Developing Dry Drunk Syndrome?

There is currently no definitive way to predict who may develop dry drunk syndrome. However, individuals with an existing mental illness or substance use disorder are at a higher risk. Moreover, those who quit drinking without seeking additional support are also more likely to experience this condition.

Is PAWS the Same as Dry Drunk Syndrome?

PAWS, or post-acute withdrawal syndrome, refers to a set of symptoms that may occur after an individual has withdrawn from an addictive substance.[8] They consist of addictive behaviors and mood alterations that persist for several months. While it is not the same as being “dry drunk,” it has similar characteristics. They are:[9]
  • Depression
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Inability to focus
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Heightened anxiety
  • Difficulty communicating with others
  • Stress sensitivity
  • Loss of motivation
  • Feeling hopeless
PAWS, like dry drunk syndrome, are hypothesized conditions that the American Psychiatric Association does not recognize.

Is There a Way to Avoid Dry Drunk Syndrome?

To lower the risk of developing dry drunk syndrome, it’s beneficial to enroll in an alcohol treatment program. In this recovery program, you’ll go through detox under medical supervision, where you’ll receive medication to ease withdrawal symptoms. This ensures that you can abstain from alcohol in a safe and supportive environment. Furthermore, engaging in behavioral therapy alongside detox can help you acquire effective coping strategies, reducing the likelihood of relapse after your recovery. For more information about treatment options for alcohol use disorder or to find which programs might suit your recovery goals, contact Southeast Addiction Center TN today.