Dry drunk syndrome is a condition that affects individuals who quit drinking but do not deal with the underlying cause behind their addiction. They are at a higher risk of relapse as they have yet to learn how to cope with the thoughts and behaviors that led them to drink in the first place. It is like taking food away from a starving person and not teaching them how to cook. An effective alcohol addiction treatment program looks at both the physical and mental aspects of addiction with the ultimate goal of lifelong sobriety.
At Swift River, we support men and women from all walks of life who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, cocaine, meth, or other harmful substances. We are a full-service, accredited treatment center that provides detox, residential, and outpatient treatment programs. Patients will work one-on-one with therapists to uncover the root cause of the addiction and develop healthy coping skills for maintaining their sobriety. To learn more about what our alcohol addiction treatment program can do for you or a loved one, call 413.570.9698 today to speak with our knowledgeable staff.
What Is Dry Drunk Syndrome?
A dry drunk is someone who has quit drinking, either on their own or through a detox program but has not dealt with the underlying cause of their addiction. The dry drunk definition was first invented by the original creators of the 12-step program. It was defined in the book The Dry Drunk Syndrome by author RJ Solberg as “the presence of actions and attitudes that characterized the alcoholic prior to recovery.”
Addiction is a mental health illness that is caused by a wide range of issues, including peer and societal pressure, family, work, and personal relationships, experiencing a traumatic event, sexual or gender confusion, and even your DNA. Because of this, you cannot simply quit drinking and expect never to feel any cravings or urges once the toxins are no longer in your body. The reasons behind your drinking are still there and will worsen over time if you don’t talk with a trained professional.
At Swift River, our treatment programs look at the physical and mental aspects of addiction and treat both simultaneously for a more effective treatment experience. We will go over the differences between wet and dry drunk meaning and further educate you about the dangers of alcohol and what it does to you and your loved ones.
Treating Dry Drunk Syndrome
Dry drunk syndrome is treatable through a combination of various treatment options that include medical and behavioral support. Addiction is a complex illness to treat and will require talking with a trained behavioral therapist who guides patients toward discovering the root cause of their addiction so true healing can begin.
Here are some of the ways to treat dry drunk syndrome:
- Behavioral therapy – Patients will participate in group and private therapy sessions where they talk about the reasons behind the addiction and learn to cope with their feelings instead of hiding from them. Therapists show patients the power within them to make positive changes and stop the endless loop of negative thoughts. During group therapy, patients will practice coping and communication skills and gain valuable insights from their peers.
- Holistic therapy – Programs such as meditation, yoga, and animal-assisted therapy are very effective in treating addiction. It introduces patients to new interests and hobbies that promote a healthy lifestyle and can improve their overall well-being.
- Family therapy – Restoring any broken relationships is important for the recovery process. Parents and/or spouses will talk with a therapist about any frustrations or anger they have because of the addiction and learn how to be supportive during the recovery process and beyond.
Dry drunk syndrome is a serious condition that can lead to relapse and potentially overdose and death if left untreated.
Swift River – Massachusetts: Your Top Choice for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
At Swift River, we help individuals who suffer from dry drunk syndrome and want relief from their depression, PTSD, or other mental health disorder that is fueling the addiction. We offer a full range of treatment programs that include:
- Drug and alcohol detox
- Residential treatment program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Sober living homes
- Intensive outpatient program
- Alumni program
- Veterans support program
- LGBTQIA+ support program
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and ready to make a real change in their lives, call 413.570.9698 today or send us a message online, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
