"Dry Drunk"?
A reader questions whether "dry drunk" is a legitimate clinical concept or just a term invented by 12-step programs, noting that many AA members they've met seem to fit the description in how they react to them.
Answered by Donna Hunter, LCSW, CAP
Question
Is "dry drunk" a real thing? Like, would a doctor or a psychiatrist say this was a real phenomenon, or is this just another manufacturance from those kooky 12 steppers?
As far as I can tell, most everyone I have ever met in AA is dry drunking it all over time, the way they react to me!
The term dry drunk is not a diagnosis, if that is what you are asking.
Is it a real thing? Anyone who has experienced life with an alcoholic or addict, who is not working a recovery program would say it is a very real thing. A dry drunk is generally not utilizing the 12 steps to address the behaviors, attitude and consequences of their addiction.
As such they are building up their ego and denial believing they must not be in such bad shape if they can white knuckle it and stop using. Stopping the use of a substance is only the beginning.
About the Expert
Donna Hunter
LCSW, CAP
Booneville, United States of America
Specialties
Dissociative Disorders, Mood Disorders, Gay Lesbian Issues, Anxiety or Fears, Spirituality, Compulsive Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Life Coaching, Addiction or Substance Abuse, OCD, EMDR, Parenting, Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence, Chronic Pain or Illness, Relationship Issues, Loss or Grief, Depression, Women
License
my_license #2505-C