Dry drunk syndrome does not happen to everyone. Several factors make a person more susceptible, including:
If the person does not address the causes of the alcohol abuse by working with a therapist, sponsor, and recovery support group
If the person leaves their treatment program
If the person has one or more mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder
If a person tries to stop drinking on their own without professional treatment, known as white-knuckling
Chances of Relapse
No one is doomed to relapse, no matter how much they experience behavioral, emotional, or physical withdrawal issues. Intervention at any point can help a person get back on track with their health and sobriety.
The best practices for working through PAWS and “dry drunk syndrome” are to participate in all aftercare options post-treatment, work with an individual and/or family counselor, be active in a recovery support community, and practice self-care through diet, exercise, and sleep hygiene.