DRY DRUNK – Recognizing The Conditions
When an alcoholic stops drinking, it’s cause for rejoicing. Unfortunately, sobriety is not guaranteed to last. It takes hard work and commitment, and a keen eye for dangers.
One danger to the non-drinking alcoholic is the dry drunk, a set of habits and attitudes that take the joy out of life for the alcoholic and those around him or her.
Those habits often precede a relapse into drinking, even if the alcoholic has been sober for years. A dry drunk can be successfully treated, and there are signs to help recognize the condition.
These are;
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Acting self-important, either by "having all the answers," or playing "poor me."
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Making harsh judgments of oneself and others. Being impatient or pursuing whims.
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Being dishonest, usually beginning with little things.
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Impulsive behavior which ignores what’s best for self and others.
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Inability to make decisions.
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Mood swings, trouble with expressing emotions, feeling unsatisfied.
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Detachment, self-absorption, boredom, distraction, or disorganization.
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Nostalgia for the drinking life.
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Less participation in a 12-step program, or dropping out altogether.
Alcohol Self-Help News 