Alcoholism in veterans is often the unfortunate fallout of PTSD. What’s the science behind the connection? And is there a way out? Find out more in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app today!
“There’s a group of people coming to kill all of us right now.” In his talk about dealing with PTSD after his 2009 tour in Afghanistan, Brandon talks about the terrifying realization he had during his first days of combat. The experience left him with the kind of emotional turmoil that makes everyday situations trigger intense outbursts.
Brandon’s story is, unfortunately, all too common among the ranks of veterans. And often it leads to substance abuse. What is the link between veterans and alcoholism? And is alcoholism a VA disability? Let’s find out more.
Most of us can’t imagine the horrors of war. But for thousands of veterans, the sights and sounds of extreme fear, pain, and death were once an everyday reality. Understandably, it leaves wounds — physical ones, but invisible ones as well.
The roots of veteran alcohol abuse are often connected to the trauma left behind after the gunshots have ceased and the dust has settled on the battlefield. Life has moved on, but something in the mind clings to the horrors of the past, trying to make sense of them.
In The Evil Hours: A Biography of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, David Morris writes about the devastating effects of PTSD. It can make it feel as if we’re stuck in time, unable to find our “groove” for years on end:
“Trauma destroys the fabric of time. In normal time you move from one moment to the next, sunrise to sunset, birth to death. After trauma, you may move in circles, find yourself being sucked backwards into an eddy or bouncing like a rubber ball from now to then to back again ... In the traumatic universe the basic laws of matter are suspended: ceiling fans can be helicopters, car exhaust can be mustard gas.”
In psychological terms, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can have many causes and can manifest in different ways, often leading to alcoholism in veterans and others who experience it.
As New York Times columnist David Brooks writes in “The Moral Injury,”
“People generally don’t suffer high rates of PTSD after natural disasters. Instead, people suffer from PTSD after moral atrocities. Soldiers who’ve endured the depraved world of combat experience their own symptoms. Trauma is an expulsive cataclysm of the soul.”
For veterans, traumatic experiences such as combat exposure, military sexual trauma, or the loss of comrades can trigger symptoms of PTSD.
The main feature of PTSD is that the memories persist, intruding on our daily experience of life and making it difficult to move on.
The symptoms of PTSD may include a number of psychological traits and patterns:
Research shows that alcohol use disorder (AUD) is very common in veterans. Part of the reason has to do with simple demographics: AUD is more common in males. Around 90% of veterans who receive AUD care from Veterans Affairs (VA) are male — a percentage that matches the overall gender composition of the veteran population, which is predominantly male. According to the NIH, 65% of those seeking help for substance abuse disorder(SUD) report alcohol as their “drug of choice.” However, some might be hesitant to admit to using other drugs because of the stigma or possible impact on their military careers.
As for PTSD, at least 7% of veterans are likely to experience it. However, this is probably an underestimate. If we dig deeper and look at the statistics related to recent wars, the numbers are even higher. As it turns out, 15% of veterans who participated in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) experienced PTSD in the last year. And 29% (almost a third!) will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Understandably, PTSD is also 3 times more likely in veterans who were deployed (i.e. went overseas and saw combat) than those who were not.
The numbers tend to be higher among women. In 2021, there were 6 million veterans using VA care. Out of them, 10% of males and 19% of females were diagnosed with PTSD. Unfortunately, the reason has to do with the prevalence of sexual trauma that adds to the burden women often face in the military. The numbers are staggering: as many as 1 in 3 women (compared to 1 in 50 men) receiving VA services reported sexual trauma related to their time in the service.
With over 2.5 million soldiers deployed to Afghanistan or Iraq, since September 11, 2001, PTSD has been called an “epidemic” among veterans. The implications are devastating: according to the UNC School of Medicine Institute for Trauma Recovery, “1 veteran commits suicide in the U.S. every 80 minutes.”
The VA uses a system of ratings to classify combat-related disabilities. They are expressed as percentages, with higher values indicating a higher level of disability (and possible compensation).
Some of us might be wondering, what is the “PTSD with alcohol use disorder” VA rating? And is alcoholism a VA disability in the first place?
While alcoholism doesn’t “count” as a primary VA disability, its aftereffects (as well as the PTSD that might have led up to it) do. For example, if a veteran receives a 50% disability rating for PTSD, that number could go up to 70% as a result of AUD-related health effects.
Research has shown a strong association between PTSD and alcoholism in veterans. According to studies, veterans with PTSD are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder compared to those without PTSD.
The relationship between PTSD and alcoholism is complex and multifaceted, with several factors coming into play:
There’s a lot of guilt that comes with combat-related PTSD. As Brooks writes in “The Moral Injury,”
“Many veterans feel guilty because they lived while others died. Some feel ashamed because they didn’t bring all their men home and wonder what they could have done differently to save them. When they get home they wonder if there’s something wrong with them because they find war repugnant but also thrilling. They hate it and miss it. Many of their self-judgments go to extremes … The self-condemnation can be crippling.”
Added to the guilt are many other emotions, including fear, anger, and hopelessness. Intrusive memories, nightmares, and hyperarousal can make the challenge of dealing with these difficult feelings appear insurmountable.
We need coping strategies to overcome challenges as heavy as PTSD and AUD, but it’s not always obvious what we should do. Without adequate resources or access to psychological help, alcohol or drugs might seem like the easiest “quick fix.”
As a central nervous system depressant, alcohol temporarily slows down our thinking and dulls our reflexes, creating an illusion of relaxation. However, the effect is only temporary: the emotional pain and psychological distress might fade into the background for some time, but usually come back stronger once the boozy haze wears off.
As veteran Jake Wood writes in Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken By War, experiencing combat and PTSD changes something in the very biology of our emotional landscape:
“You are no longer human, with all those depths and highs and nuances of emotion that define you as a person. There is no feeling anymore, because to feel any emotion would also be to beckon the overwhelming blackness from you. My mind has now locked all this down. And without any control of this self-defense mechanism my subconscious has operated. I do not feel anymore.”
This emotional “dullness” is a classic sign of dopamine depletion, which can be a symptom of PTSD and alcoholism alike. The “feel-good chemical” is part of the brain’s reward system, which normally makes activities such as socializing, eating, or pursuing romantic interests enjoyable.
Traumatic experiences can cause neurological shifts in our reward system (as well as in our natural endorphin levels) that make it hard for us to experience joy. It makes all the more sense why alcohol — which boosts dopamine and endorphins in the short term — seems like a solution. However, over time the brain produces less of the neurochemical to rebalance itself, leading to dependence and addiction. The result? Both PTSD and alcohol misuse become further entrenched and more difficult to overcome.
Last but not least, one of the most crippling effects of living with the memories of active combat is the fact that it can be an incredibly lonely experience. Most of us haven’t experienced it directly, and while we might be able to empathize at a human level, it’s not the same. Heartbreaking as it is, our gestures of empathy are simply not enough. As veteran Jake Wood writes in Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken By War, “I feel no emotional connection to these outwardly human gestures. I am not there, because I never left Afghanistan.”
As a result, veterans can fall into a downward spiral of isolation, retreating from life rather than trying to find connection and meaning. Once alcohol is in the picture, the spiral turns into a vortex: drinking to cope with the trauma only increases the isolation, fueling addictive behavior as time goes on. (To find out more, take a look at “How Do Loneliness and Alcohol Fuel Each Other.”)
While PTSD and AUD alike can seem like an impossible trap, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Many have made it out to the other side. That said, it takes some hard work — but it can absolutely be done! Here are some ideas to start with.
With these steps, you can start your journey to rediscovering life and redefining your place in it. And remember, Reframe is here to support you every step of the way!
In the end, it’s crucial to remember that both PTSD and AUD are medical conditions. And while it’s our responsibility to address them, it’s never our fault if we find ourselves struggling. We should never feel alone in the process — let’s not lose sight of the fact that recovery is possible, and there’s so much hope and joy waiting for us.
“There’s a group of people coming to kill all of us right now.” In his talk about dealing with PTSD after his 2009 tour in Afghanistan, Brandon talks about the terrifying realization he had during his first days of combat. The experience left him with the kind of emotional turmoil that makes everyday situations trigger intense outbursts.
Brandon’s story is, unfortunately, all too common among the ranks of veterans. And often it leads to substance abuse. What is the link between veterans and alcoholism? And is alcoholism a VA disability? Let’s find out more.
Most of us can’t imagine the horrors of war. But for thousands of veterans, the sights and sounds of extreme fear, pain, and death were once an everyday reality. Understandably, it leaves wounds — physical ones, but invisible ones as well.
The roots of veteran alcohol abuse are often connected to the trauma left behind after the gunshots have ceased and the dust has settled on the battlefield. Life has moved on, but something in the mind clings to the horrors of the past, trying to make sense of them.
In The Evil Hours: A Biography of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, David Morris writes about the devastating effects of PTSD. It can make it feel as if we’re stuck in time, unable to find our “groove” for years on end:
“Trauma destroys the fabric of time. In normal time you move from one moment to the next, sunrise to sunset, birth to death. After trauma, you may move in circles, find yourself being sucked backwards into an eddy or bouncing like a rubber ball from now to then to back again ... In the traumatic universe the basic laws of matter are suspended: ceiling fans can be helicopters, car exhaust can be mustard gas.”
In psychological terms, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can have many causes and can manifest in different ways, often leading to alcoholism in veterans and others who experience it.
As New York Times columnist David Brooks writes in “The Moral Injury,”
“People generally don’t suffer high rates of PTSD after natural disasters. Instead, people suffer from PTSD after moral atrocities. Soldiers who’ve endured the depraved world of combat experience their own symptoms. Trauma is an expulsive cataclysm of the soul.”
For veterans, traumatic experiences such as combat exposure, military sexual trauma, or the loss of comrades can trigger symptoms of PTSD.
The main feature of PTSD is that the memories persist, intruding on our daily experience of life and making it difficult to move on.
The symptoms of PTSD may include a number of psychological traits and patterns:
Research shows that alcohol use disorder (AUD) is very common in veterans. Part of the reason has to do with simple demographics: AUD is more common in males. Around 90% of veterans who receive AUD care from Veterans Affairs (VA) are male — a percentage that matches the overall gender composition of the veteran population, which is predominantly male. According to the NIH, 65% of those seeking help for substance abuse disorder(SUD) report alcohol as their “drug of choice.” However, some might be hesitant to admit to using other drugs because of the stigma or possible impact on their military careers.
As for PTSD, at least 7% of veterans are likely to experience it. However, this is probably an underestimate. If we dig deeper and look at the statistics related to recent wars, the numbers are even higher. As it turns out, 15% of veterans who participated in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) experienced PTSD in the last year. And 29% (almost a third!) will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Understandably, PTSD is also 3 times more likely in veterans who were deployed (i.e. went overseas and saw combat) than those who were not.
The numbers tend to be higher among women. In 2021, there were 6 million veterans using VA care. Out of them, 10% of males and 19% of females were diagnosed with PTSD. Unfortunately, the reason has to do with the prevalence of sexual trauma that adds to the burden women often face in the military. The numbers are staggering: as many as 1 in 3 women (compared to 1 in 50 men) receiving VA services reported sexual trauma related to their time in the service.
With over 2.5 million soldiers deployed to Afghanistan or Iraq, since September 11, 2001, PTSD has been called an “epidemic” among veterans. The implications are devastating: according to the UNC School of Medicine Institute for Trauma Recovery, “1 veteran commits suicide in the U.S. every 80 minutes.”
The VA uses a system of ratings to classify combat-related disabilities. They are expressed as percentages, with higher values indicating a higher level of disability (and possible compensation).
Some of us might be wondering, what is the “PTSD with alcohol use disorder” VA rating? And is alcoholism a VA disability in the first place?
While alcoholism doesn’t “count” as a primary VA disability, its aftereffects (as well as the PTSD that might have led up to it) do. For example, if a veteran receives a 50% disability rating for PTSD, that number could go up to 70% as a result of AUD-related health effects.
Research has shown a strong association between PTSD and alcoholism in veterans. According to studies, veterans with PTSD are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder compared to those without PTSD.
The relationship between PTSD and alcoholism is complex and multifaceted, with several factors coming into play:
There’s a lot of guilt that comes with combat-related PTSD. As Brooks writes in “The Moral Injury,”
“Many veterans feel guilty because they lived while others died. Some feel ashamed because they didn’t bring all their men home and wonder what they could have done differently to save them. When they get home they wonder if there’s something wrong with them because they find war repugnant but also thrilling. They hate it and miss it. Many of their self-judgments go to extremes … The self-condemnation can be crippling.”
Added to the guilt are many other emotions, including fear, anger, and hopelessness. Intrusive memories, nightmares, and hyperarousal can make the challenge of dealing with these difficult feelings appear insurmountable.
We need coping strategies to overcome challenges as heavy as PTSD and AUD, but it’s not always obvious what we should do. Without adequate resources or access to psychological help, alcohol or drugs might seem like the easiest “quick fix.”
As a central nervous system depressant, alcohol temporarily slows down our thinking and dulls our reflexes, creating an illusion of relaxation. However, the effect is only temporary: the emotional pain and psychological distress might fade into the background for some time, but usually come back stronger once the boozy haze wears off.
As veteran Jake Wood writes in Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken By War, experiencing combat and PTSD changes something in the very biology of our emotional landscape:
“You are no longer human, with all those depths and highs and nuances of emotion that define you as a person. There is no feeling anymore, because to feel any emotion would also be to beckon the overwhelming blackness from you. My mind has now locked all this down. And without any control of this self-defense mechanism my subconscious has operated. I do not feel anymore.”
This emotional “dullness” is a classic sign of dopamine depletion, which can be a symptom of PTSD and alcoholism alike. The “feel-good chemical” is part of the brain’s reward system, which normally makes activities such as socializing, eating, or pursuing romantic interests enjoyable.
Traumatic experiences can cause neurological shifts in our reward system (as well as in our natural endorphin levels) that make it hard for us to experience joy. It makes all the more sense why alcohol — which boosts dopamine and endorphins in the short term — seems like a solution. However, over time the brain produces less of the neurochemical to rebalance itself, leading to dependence and addiction. The result? Both PTSD and alcohol misuse become further entrenched and more difficult to overcome.
Last but not least, one of the most crippling effects of living with the memories of active combat is the fact that it can be an incredibly lonely experience. Most of us haven’t experienced it directly, and while we might be able to empathize at a human level, it’s not the same. Heartbreaking as it is, our gestures of empathy are simply not enough. As veteran Jake Wood writes in Among You: The Extraordinary True Story of a Soldier Broken By War, “I feel no emotional connection to these outwardly human gestures. I am not there, because I never left Afghanistan.”
As a result, veterans can fall into a downward spiral of isolation, retreating from life rather than trying to find connection and meaning. Once alcohol is in the picture, the spiral turns into a vortex: drinking to cope with the trauma only increases the isolation, fueling addictive behavior as time goes on. (To find out more, take a look at “How Do Loneliness and Alcohol Fuel Each Other.”)
While PTSD and AUD alike can seem like an impossible trap, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Many have made it out to the other side. That said, it takes some hard work — but it can absolutely be done! Here are some ideas to start with.
With these steps, you can start your journey to rediscovering life and redefining your place in it. And remember, Reframe is here to support you every step of the way!
In the end, it’s crucial to remember that both PTSD and AUD are medical conditions. And while it’s our responsibility to address them, it’s never our fault if we find ourselves struggling. We should never feel alone in the process — let’s not lose sight of the fact that recovery is possible, and there’s so much hope and joy waiting for us.
A journal can be a great tool in addiction recovery. Read all about the benefits and get some ideas for recovery journal prompts in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app today!
Some of us love writing — journals, wedding toasts, greeting cards for any occasion, you name it. Bring out the fancy pens and gold-rimmed journals, and let’s get going! Others might have a love-hate relationship with it. Maybe it brings up memories of your fifth-grade teacher marking those punctuation and spelling errors.
Regardless of our history with journaling, it can be a valuable tool for addiction recovery. Before you dig in your heels, however, remember that there are no grades or grammar checks. There are no deadlines, style guides, or word limits to worry about. In fact, you don’t even have to share it with anyone unless you want to (not even your cat, if she’s too judgy)! And we promise it’ll be worth it; journaling through recovery comes with many benefits.
In this article, we’ll share some of the top benefits and some writing prompts to get you started.
In spite of the rumors, drugs and alcohol don’t actually help us be more creative, but creativity can help us overcome addiction and free our minds to be more creative.
As David Sacks writes in Psychology Today, “Many people who become addicted to drugs or alcohol have alexithymia, a term that describes people who don’t understand what they’re feeling or how others feel or can’t put their feelings into words.” Creative pursuits (such as journaling) can “allow people to express difficult thoughts, memories, and feelings without being constrained by words.”
There’s another powerful reason journaling can be a great recovery tool — writing is a way to naturally get into a “flow state,” which helps the brain release pleasure-producing neurochemicals such as dopamine.
Flow state is all about being in “the zone”: time stands still; outside sights and sounds fade into the background; and even the voice inside your head (you know, that pesky one that tells you you “need a drink”) quiets down. Want to know more? Check out our blog “How To Enter a Flow State: 5 Ways To Get in the Zone.”
Everywhere we look these days, we’re told to be more mindful. While mindfulness may seem like a buzzword, there’s powerful neuroscience behind it! In fact, focusing our attention on the present moment by sitting quietly, observing our breath, walking, or performing daily tasks (such as folding laundry) can activate neural pathways that promote peace. At the same time, our anxiety and stress levels decrease, our compassion for others and ourselves increases, and cravings fade into the background.
Journaling can be a great mindfulness exercise that centers us on the present moment and harnesses the power of the “now.” It’s just you and the page (or the screen), nothing else.
If it feels awkward at first, stick with it. As Idowu Koyenikan writes in Wealth for All: Living a Life of Success at the Edge of Your Ability, “The mind is just like a muscle — the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets and the more it can expand.” Similarly, writing is like a muscle that gets stronger when we exercise it. And the more we do so, the stronger our recovery gets.
Want more ideas? Check out “20 Mindful Journal Prompts To Build Stress Resilience.”
Another great use of a recovery journal? It can help us track habits and triggers related to our recovery. Neuroscience shows that tracking health habits can work wonders for consistency and success over time. It’s all about progress, not perfection: when we track our patterns over an extended period, we see overall trends rather than daily fluctuations.
In addition to spotting potential pitfalls and triggers before they lead to a full-blown relapse, tracking our recovery is a great way to celebrate milestones. By seeing our progress in writing, we can see how far we’ve come. Building and tracking small and specific habits related to our goals is also a great way to build motivation and reduce frustration along the way. The journey isn’t always linear, and that’s okay — what matters is that we’re headed in the right direction.
Curious about the ins and outs of habit tracking? Take a look at our blogs “Tracking Your Drinking Just Got Easier” and “Tracking Your Drinking Can Change Your Relationship with Alcohol.”
Daily wins. At the end of each day, jot down three specific “wins.” They don’t have to be big! Maybe you were able to dismiss a craving, swap that wine for a mocktail, or walk by the liquor store down the street without going in (or better yet, without even noticing it!). Over time, looking back at these victories — no matter how small they might seem — can provide an extra boost of motivation.
Looking back. Take a journey through your previous entries and see if any patterns emerge. Do the same triggers come up over and over again? Do certain days of the week (or times of day) seem easier than others? Write about any trends that come up.
Now, tracking all those wins just might leave us feeling grateful! Gratitude journaling is yet another powerful practice that can add momentum to our addiction recovery.
Neuroscience research shows that gratitude has tangible effects on the brain, activating regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. One of the fascinating experiments that led to this discovery tracked brain activity in subjects who were asked to imagine themselves receiving unexpected gifts in the middle of the Holocaust. The researchers found that the distinct gratitude “footprint” in the brain could have an impact on our moral cognition and positive emotion processing, both of which play a role in addiction recovery.
Gratitude also triggers the release of dopamine — the brain’s reward neurochemical, which is artificially triggered by alcohol and other drugs. In other words, gratitude can act as a powerful natural “high.” Check out “10 Benefits of a Daily Gratitude Practice” for a deeper look.
P.S. Need more ideas? Check out “Gratitude Journal Prompts To Practice Daily.”
Finally, let’s use our recovery journal to look to the future! There’s great power in the practice of visualization, and we can harness it through writing.
In her Psychology Today article “Seeing Is Believing: The Power of Visualization,” A.J. Adams writes, “Mental practice can get you closer to where you want to be in life.” She gives the example of Natan Sharansky, a computer specialist imprisoned in the USSR practicing mental chess to eventually beat world champion chess player Garry Kasparov in 1996.
Science backs up the power of visualization as well. It’s a well-known fact that athletes use visualization as part of their training process and experience real-life benefits from visualizing how they cross that finish line, complete a perfect pole vault, or tackle an opponent on the wrestling mat. When a Cleveland Clinic Foundation exercise psychologist had a group of subjects perform “virtual workouts” in their minds, he found that the “mental contractions” increased finger abduction strength by 35%. By the end of four weeks, however, the mental workout continued to lead to improvements, resulting in a 40% gain in strength.
Write about your special place and return to the writing when you’re struggling with cravings or triggers. It’ll be here for you and will help shift your perspective.
Writing, in the end, is about exploring your own life from different perspectives that can be hard to sort out in real-time. As Aldous Huxley observes, “Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly — they’ll go through anything.” Let’s use these X-rays to illuminate hidden aspects of our journey, helping clear a path through challenges and discovering unexpected joys along the way.
Some of us love writing — journals, wedding toasts, greeting cards for any occasion, you name it. Bring out the fancy pens and gold-rimmed journals, and let’s get going! Others might have a love-hate relationship with it. Maybe it brings up memories of your fifth-grade teacher marking those punctuation and spelling errors.
Regardless of our history with journaling, it can be a valuable tool for addiction recovery. Before you dig in your heels, however, remember that there are no grades or grammar checks. There are no deadlines, style guides, or word limits to worry about. In fact, you don’t even have to share it with anyone unless you want to (not even your cat, if she’s too judgy)! And we promise it’ll be worth it; journaling through recovery comes with many benefits.
In this article, we’ll share some of the top benefits and some writing prompts to get you started.
In spite of the rumors, drugs and alcohol don’t actually help us be more creative, but creativity can help us overcome addiction and free our minds to be more creative.
As David Sacks writes in Psychology Today, “Many people who become addicted to drugs or alcohol have alexithymia, a term that describes people who don’t understand what they’re feeling or how others feel or can’t put their feelings into words.” Creative pursuits (such as journaling) can “allow people to express difficult thoughts, memories, and feelings without being constrained by words.”
There’s another powerful reason journaling can be a great recovery tool — writing is a way to naturally get into a “flow state,” which helps the brain release pleasure-producing neurochemicals such as dopamine.
Flow state is all about being in “the zone”: time stands still; outside sights and sounds fade into the background; and even the voice inside your head (you know, that pesky one that tells you you “need a drink”) quiets down. Want to know more? Check out our blog “How To Enter a Flow State: 5 Ways To Get in the Zone.”
Everywhere we look these days, we’re told to be more mindful. While mindfulness may seem like a buzzword, there’s powerful neuroscience behind it! In fact, focusing our attention on the present moment by sitting quietly, observing our breath, walking, or performing daily tasks (such as folding laundry) can activate neural pathways that promote peace. At the same time, our anxiety and stress levels decrease, our compassion for others and ourselves increases, and cravings fade into the background.
Journaling can be a great mindfulness exercise that centers us on the present moment and harnesses the power of the “now.” It’s just you and the page (or the screen), nothing else.
If it feels awkward at first, stick with it. As Idowu Koyenikan writes in Wealth for All: Living a Life of Success at the Edge of Your Ability, “The mind is just like a muscle — the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets and the more it can expand.” Similarly, writing is like a muscle that gets stronger when we exercise it. And the more we do so, the stronger our recovery gets.
Want more ideas? Check out “20 Mindful Journal Prompts To Build Stress Resilience.”
Another great use of a recovery journal? It can help us track habits and triggers related to our recovery. Neuroscience shows that tracking health habits can work wonders for consistency and success over time. It’s all about progress, not perfection: when we track our patterns over an extended period, we see overall trends rather than daily fluctuations.
In addition to spotting potential pitfalls and triggers before they lead to a full-blown relapse, tracking our recovery is a great way to celebrate milestones. By seeing our progress in writing, we can see how far we’ve come. Building and tracking small and specific habits related to our goals is also a great way to build motivation and reduce frustration along the way. The journey isn’t always linear, and that’s okay — what matters is that we’re headed in the right direction.
Curious about the ins and outs of habit tracking? Take a look at our blogs “Tracking Your Drinking Just Got Easier” and “Tracking Your Drinking Can Change Your Relationship with Alcohol.”
Daily wins. At the end of each day, jot down three specific “wins.” They don’t have to be big! Maybe you were able to dismiss a craving, swap that wine for a mocktail, or walk by the liquor store down the street without going in (or better yet, without even noticing it!). Over time, looking back at these victories — no matter how small they might seem — can provide an extra boost of motivation.
Looking back. Take a journey through your previous entries and see if any patterns emerge. Do the same triggers come up over and over again? Do certain days of the week (or times of day) seem easier than others? Write about any trends that come up.
Now, tracking all those wins just might leave us feeling grateful! Gratitude journaling is yet another powerful practice that can add momentum to our addiction recovery.
Neuroscience research shows that gratitude has tangible effects on the brain, activating regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. One of the fascinating experiments that led to this discovery tracked brain activity in subjects who were asked to imagine themselves receiving unexpected gifts in the middle of the Holocaust. The researchers found that the distinct gratitude “footprint” in the brain could have an impact on our moral cognition and positive emotion processing, both of which play a role in addiction recovery.
Gratitude also triggers the release of dopamine — the brain’s reward neurochemical, which is artificially triggered by alcohol and other drugs. In other words, gratitude can act as a powerful natural “high.” Check out “10 Benefits of a Daily Gratitude Practice” for a deeper look.
P.S. Need more ideas? Check out “Gratitude Journal Prompts To Practice Daily.”
Finally, let’s use our recovery journal to look to the future! There’s great power in the practice of visualization, and we can harness it through writing.
In her Psychology Today article “Seeing Is Believing: The Power of Visualization,” A.J. Adams writes, “Mental practice can get you closer to where you want to be in life.” She gives the example of Natan Sharansky, a computer specialist imprisoned in the USSR practicing mental chess to eventually beat world champion chess player Garry Kasparov in 1996.
Science backs up the power of visualization as well. It’s a well-known fact that athletes use visualization as part of their training process and experience real-life benefits from visualizing how they cross that finish line, complete a perfect pole vault, or tackle an opponent on the wrestling mat. When a Cleveland Clinic Foundation exercise psychologist had a group of subjects perform “virtual workouts” in their minds, he found that the “mental contractions” increased finger abduction strength by 35%. By the end of four weeks, however, the mental workout continued to lead to improvements, resulting in a 40% gain in strength.
Write about your special place and return to the writing when you’re struggling with cravings or triggers. It’ll be here for you and will help shift your perspective.
Writing, in the end, is about exploring your own life from different perspectives that can be hard to sort out in real-time. As Aldous Huxley observes, “Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly — they’ll go through anything.” Let’s use these X-rays to illuminate hidden aspects of our journey, helping clear a path through challenges and discovering unexpected joys along the way.
Ever wonder how alcohol can cause memory blackouts and personality changes? 🍸🧠 Our latest blog post explains it all, complete with tips on how to avoid them.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You just woke up with a pounding headache to find that a friend has posted an embarrassing video of you singing a drunken rendition of “Sweet Caroline” at the local karaoke bar, and you’re not sure whether to laugh or cry. Getting up on a stage is not in your playbook, especially when singing is involved. “Do I really sound like that?” you wonder. And more importantly, “Why don’t I remember this?”
Unfortunately, lapses in memory and personality changes are a common part of booze-filled evenings. They can lead to innocent, albeit embarrassing, stage performances but also to more dangerous behaviors that can wreak havoc on our life.
In today’s blog post, we’ll explore the connection between alcohol use, memory, and behavior changes, and how these impact our health, relationships, and well-being.
To fully understand blackouts, we have to understand how alcohol affects our cognitive function. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows down all the messengers (neurotransmitters) from our brain to the rest of our body. The more we drink, the more it impairs everything from our movements to our speech to our very consciousness.
So, do you know what you're doing when blackout drunk? That’s a lot like asking about a tree falling in a forest. Alcohol directly targets the hippocampus, the primary structure in the brain responsible for memory. Excessive drinking disrupts the memory-making process, leading to the phenomenon of alcohol-induced blackouts. You may know what you’re doing in the moment, but you won’t have any memory of it the next morning.
Distinct from passing out, alcohol blackouts are when we remain conscious but our brain fails to hit the “record” button. As a result, we often find large gaps in our memory from when we were intoxicated.
So, what does blacking out feel like? It’s hard to say exactly given that most people don’t remember it, but from what we know about the general effects of alcohol, suffice it to say it’s a painful, confusing journey. The only tangible feeling is what comes the next day: you may experience one of two types of blackout:
For more details, check out our blog post “What Happens When You Black Out From Drinking?”
In addition to blackouts, short-term and long-term personality changes are another common side effect of excessive drinking.
You know how tight-lipped Uncle Joe gets super chatty when he drinks? Or happy Aunt Jody starts sobbing uncontrollably? Or perhaps you’ve heard someone described as an “angry drunk.” These are just a few examples of short-term personality changes brought on by alcohol. However, it’s not so much that their personality changes as it is that their normal filters and barriers come down, revealing other facets of their personalities. Could that be why you got up on the karaoke stage? Do you secretly seek the limelight?
While short-term personality changes may make for embarrassing (and sometimes amusing) anecdotes, a repeated pattern of over-imbibing can lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD), which can alter our brain structure and chemistry, leading to lasting personality changes. Studies show, for example, that the more we drink, the more likely we are to struggle with anxiety and depression symptoms, which can significantly affect our mood.
Whether it’s an aunt who gets a little weepy when she drinks or a friend who is forever changed due to chronic misuse, it’s easy to see how alcohol can alter personalities and impact our lives. Let’s take a closer look at the possible outcomes.
The potential domino effect of drinking to the point of blacking out is nearly infinite. Every risk of normal drinking is present but to a higher degree:
As they say in physics, “Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” The same applies to drinking: every sip we take can increase our risk of unintended consequences. The good news is that we can change our drinking habits, no matter how bad they may have gotten, and likewise reverse alcohol’s effects on our brain chemistry.
If you’re ready to kick alcohol blackouts out of your life, there are options. There is a whole support network of people at Reframe eager and willing to help you quit or cut back on drinking and live a healthier, happier, safer life. If you’re not ready to take that step, there are some things you can start to do on your own.
To start you on the right track, let’s explore some ways to prevent and/or manage drinking habits to reduce the risk of alcohol blackouts and personality changes:
As you put in the effort to prevent and manage your drinking habits, you can avoid blackouts and start to feel more like yourself again.
Alcohol has short-term and long-term effects on every part of our body, especially our brain. Heavy drinking can lead to blackouts, and chronic misuse can lead to personality changes. Both of these can lead to numerous negative outcomes in our personal and professional lives. But there is hope! With a little determination and help from our friends, family, and resources like Reframe, we can take control of our lives and feel more present again.
You just woke up with a pounding headache to find that a friend has posted an embarrassing video of you singing a drunken rendition of “Sweet Caroline” at the local karaoke bar, and you’re not sure whether to laugh or cry. Getting up on a stage is not in your playbook, especially when singing is involved. “Do I really sound like that?” you wonder. And more importantly, “Why don’t I remember this?”
Unfortunately, lapses in memory and personality changes are a common part of booze-filled evenings. They can lead to innocent, albeit embarrassing, stage performances but also to more dangerous behaviors that can wreak havoc on our life.
In today’s blog post, we’ll explore the connection between alcohol use, memory, and behavior changes, and how these impact our health, relationships, and well-being.
To fully understand blackouts, we have to understand how alcohol affects our cognitive function. Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows down all the messengers (neurotransmitters) from our brain to the rest of our body. The more we drink, the more it impairs everything from our movements to our speech to our very consciousness.
So, do you know what you're doing when blackout drunk? That’s a lot like asking about a tree falling in a forest. Alcohol directly targets the hippocampus, the primary structure in the brain responsible for memory. Excessive drinking disrupts the memory-making process, leading to the phenomenon of alcohol-induced blackouts. You may know what you’re doing in the moment, but you won’t have any memory of it the next morning.
Distinct from passing out, alcohol blackouts are when we remain conscious but our brain fails to hit the “record” button. As a result, we often find large gaps in our memory from when we were intoxicated.
So, what does blacking out feel like? It’s hard to say exactly given that most people don’t remember it, but from what we know about the general effects of alcohol, suffice it to say it’s a painful, confusing journey. The only tangible feeling is what comes the next day: you may experience one of two types of blackout:
For more details, check out our blog post “What Happens When You Black Out From Drinking?”
In addition to blackouts, short-term and long-term personality changes are another common side effect of excessive drinking.
You know how tight-lipped Uncle Joe gets super chatty when he drinks? Or happy Aunt Jody starts sobbing uncontrollably? Or perhaps you’ve heard someone described as an “angry drunk.” These are just a few examples of short-term personality changes brought on by alcohol. However, it’s not so much that their personality changes as it is that their normal filters and barriers come down, revealing other facets of their personalities. Could that be why you got up on the karaoke stage? Do you secretly seek the limelight?
While short-term personality changes may make for embarrassing (and sometimes amusing) anecdotes, a repeated pattern of over-imbibing can lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD), which can alter our brain structure and chemistry, leading to lasting personality changes. Studies show, for example, that the more we drink, the more likely we are to struggle with anxiety and depression symptoms, which can significantly affect our mood.
Whether it’s an aunt who gets a little weepy when she drinks or a friend who is forever changed due to chronic misuse, it’s easy to see how alcohol can alter personalities and impact our lives. Let’s take a closer look at the possible outcomes.
The potential domino effect of drinking to the point of blacking out is nearly infinite. Every risk of normal drinking is present but to a higher degree:
As they say in physics, “Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” The same applies to drinking: every sip we take can increase our risk of unintended consequences. The good news is that we can change our drinking habits, no matter how bad they may have gotten, and likewise reverse alcohol’s effects on our brain chemistry.
If you’re ready to kick alcohol blackouts out of your life, there are options. There is a whole support network of people at Reframe eager and willing to help you quit or cut back on drinking and live a healthier, happier, safer life. If you’re not ready to take that step, there are some things you can start to do on your own.
To start you on the right track, let’s explore some ways to prevent and/or manage drinking habits to reduce the risk of alcohol blackouts and personality changes:
As you put in the effort to prevent and manage your drinking habits, you can avoid blackouts and start to feel more like yourself again.
Alcohol has short-term and long-term effects on every part of our body, especially our brain. Heavy drinking can lead to blackouts, and chronic misuse can lead to personality changes. Both of these can lead to numerous negative outcomes in our personal and professional lives. But there is hope! With a little determination and help from our friends, family, and resources like Reframe, we can take control of our lives and feel more present again.
Latching on to old behaviors in sobriety? Turns out, it’s more common than you might think! Read more about dry drunk syndrome and strategies to overcome it.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Given the wealth of information on the internet, is it any surprise when we could find ourselves scouring the web for diagnoses of our symptoms? One search and we could be going down the rabbit hole of every possible health condition and solution. For those of us in recovery, a term that pops up often is “dry drunk.” Seemingly contradictory, the term may be even more confusing after we’ve searched for answers.
Let’s examine further what dry drunk means and explore some ways to better manage the symptoms that can accompany the condition. The journey to sobriety is no walk in the park, but having a better understanding of its challenges can help us make sure we stay on track. Before we get into the common challenges and how to overcome them, let’s first understand what “dry drunk” means.
Dry drunk, or dry alcoholic, is a term that was originally used to describe someone who may be holding onto prior habits even after they stop drinking. The term was coined by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous who used it to describe those in sobriety who may not be getting the help they need. However, it is no longer used in this context; today it can imply that someone in recovery may not be trying hard enough.
The meaning of dry drunk, as it is now used, refers to someone who experiences symptoms and displays certain behaviors that are attributed to dry drunk syndrome. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly dry drunk syndrome is and what symptoms and behaviors are associated with it.
Dry drunk syndrome refers to the experiences of someone who is in sobriety but continues to display behaviors and experiences similar to the ones they endured when they were drinking. Imagine cutting sugar out of our diet but continuing to suffer its same negative effects. That can be confusing and discouraging — just as dry drunk symptoms are for someone cutting out alcohol.
Those of us recovering from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) may experience dry drunk syndrome — especially if we try to white-knuckle sobriety. White knuckling in recovery refers to leaning solely on willpower to stop drinking, often without any outside support or treatment. This can compound the negative feelings of dry drunk symptoms and leave us stuck in the dry drunk stage. Let’s explore in more detail what AUD is to better understand why dry drunk symptoms can occur in recovery.
Alcohol use disorder is more than just a bad habit or lack of willpower — it is recognized as a mental disorder. Someone with AUD may not be able to stop drinking even if they experience harmful effects. In recovery, cutting out alcohol is a crucial step that involves emotional and behavioral challenges.
There are various stages of AUD, but regardless of the stage, the condition can have detrimental impacts on our life. A person’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being is severely affected by AUD, which can cause lingering effects of dry drunk symptoms even after quitting alcohol. Acknowledging AUD as a serious medical issue can help us understand why dry drunk syndrome can occur during recovery. Most important, it can help us prevail over these challenges.
Another common experience in recovery is post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Let’s take a closer look at what PAWS is to determine the similarities and differences between dry drunk syndrome and PAWS.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is the stage in which a person has moved past the acute stage of withdrawal but continues to experience psychological effects. The acute stage of withdrawal typically refers to the 24 hours after our last drink, whereas PAWS symptoms can last up to six months. Some common experiences of PAWS include mood fluctuations, lower stress tolerance, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and longing for a drink.
Dry drunk syndrome and PAWS have similar symptoms, but the terms are not used interchangeably. While neither condition is officially recognized in the DSM-5, both are common experiences for those in recovery from AUD. Medical professionals and researchers attribute dry drunk behaviors and symptoms to be part of PAWS. Let’s take a look at some of the specific symptoms that are associated with dry drunk syndrome.
Much the way symptoms of the flu can differ from person to person, dry drunk symptoms will also vary — but there are some common ones:
Recognizing dry drunk symptoms and behaviors is the first step in helping us work through them and progress along the road to real sobriety. Deciphering the causes of dry drunk behaviors can also help us better manage the symptoms.
Researchers continue to attempt to identify the causes of dry drunk behaviors, which are accepted as part of post-acute withdrawal. However, it is widely agreed that PAWS symptoms are a result of physiological changes in the brain that occur from dependence on a substance. PAWS not only occurs in recovery from AUD but also in recovery from other drug misuse, including opioids and marijuana.
Substance misuse affects neurotransmitters in the brain, which are altered after extended periods of exposure to the substance. When the substance is removed, our neurotransmitters need time to adjust — causing prolonged symptoms associated with dry drunk syndrome.
There are other factors besides alcohol that lead to AUD. Alcohol is commonly used as a coping mechanism or way to escape negative emotions or feelings. While the substance itself is removed in recovery, the issues leading to misuse in the first place may not have been dealt with yet. Therefore, the conflicting emotions and longing for alcohol that commonly occurs during the dry drunk period should be addressed. Recovery is often referred to as an identity transition that not only involves quitting drinking but also identifying and reworking the factors that led to alcohol misuse.
Quitting alcohol is arguably the most important step in AUD recovery, but staying in the dry drunk stage can be dangerous. It can be compared to painting over the cracks on a dilapidated house. From the outside, the house may look brand new, but until the cracks are repaired, the house can still come crumbling down — just like our health in the limbo dry drunk stage.
The dry drunk stage is a tricky place to be. We may be in a better place than when we were drinking, but continuing to experience the same behavioral and psychological effects can be tormenting. While the act of quitting alcohol can stop our physical health from declining, settling into this dry drunk stage can continue to negatively impact our mental health.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions are commonly associated with post-acute withdrawal. One of the dangers of not continuing to pursue full recovery is the risk of falling deeper into a negative mental space. This could then lead to a full-blown mental disorder and put us at risk for relapse. Although symptoms of dry drunk syndrome and PAWS may be difficult to navigate, they are important stages to surmount in order to transition from the dry drunk period to true sobriety. Since dry drunk symptoms can often bring about feelings of shame or discouragement, let’s take a closer look at the prevalence of dry drunk syndrome to help us understand more about the condition.
The experience of recovery is extremely individualized. However, due to the way alcohol interacts with the systems in our brain and body, we may have common symptoms and occurrences. While research on PAWS continues to require further study, UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior found that PAWS occurs in over 75% of those of us recovering from AUD.
Understanding that PAWS happens to many of us in recovery helps us feel less alone and can motivate us to continue to push through to full recovery. It can be discouraging to quit alcohol and continue to feel the same effects, but recognizing the prevalence and causes of dry drunk syndrome can help us better navigate it.
Now that we understand that dry drunk syndrome is a common occurrence, let's explore some strategies to overcome this challenge in recovery. Symptoms of dry drunk syndrome can be frustrating and demotivating, but here are four helpful ways to manage them.
Dry drunk symptoms are unpleasant, but implementing these strategies can make them less daunting. Having support from family and friends is also helpful in persisting along the path to full recovery.
Experiencing dry drunk symptoms in recovery can cause emotional distress and even discourage us from maintaining sobriety. Support from loved ones is integral in motivating those of us working to reduce or stop alcohol consumption to keep going. Here are some ways that our circle of support can help:
Many of us only hear of the silver linings of sobriety, but the reality is that recovery from AUD has no shortage of trials and tribulations. Dry drunk syndrome and its complicated symptoms can be discouraging for those of us in recovery. While the dry drunk stage is safer than alcohol misuse, there are detrimental effects if we stay stuck in it. The symptoms can be difficult to navigate, but with the strategies outlined and with support from friends and family, true sobriety is not a pipe dream. Dry drunk syndrome may visit us, but it’s not here to stay!
Given the wealth of information on the internet, is it any surprise when we could find ourselves scouring the web for diagnoses of our symptoms? One search and we could be going down the rabbit hole of every possible health condition and solution. For those of us in recovery, a term that pops up often is “dry drunk.” Seemingly contradictory, the term may be even more confusing after we’ve searched for answers.
Let’s examine further what dry drunk means and explore some ways to better manage the symptoms that can accompany the condition. The journey to sobriety is no walk in the park, but having a better understanding of its challenges can help us make sure we stay on track. Before we get into the common challenges and how to overcome them, let’s first understand what “dry drunk” means.
Dry drunk, or dry alcoholic, is a term that was originally used to describe someone who may be holding onto prior habits even after they stop drinking. The term was coined by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous who used it to describe those in sobriety who may not be getting the help they need. However, it is no longer used in this context; today it can imply that someone in recovery may not be trying hard enough.
The meaning of dry drunk, as it is now used, refers to someone who experiences symptoms and displays certain behaviors that are attributed to dry drunk syndrome. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly dry drunk syndrome is and what symptoms and behaviors are associated with it.
Dry drunk syndrome refers to the experiences of someone who is in sobriety but continues to display behaviors and experiences similar to the ones they endured when they were drinking. Imagine cutting sugar out of our diet but continuing to suffer its same negative effects. That can be confusing and discouraging — just as dry drunk symptoms are for someone cutting out alcohol.
Those of us recovering from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) may experience dry drunk syndrome — especially if we try to white-knuckle sobriety. White knuckling in recovery refers to leaning solely on willpower to stop drinking, often without any outside support or treatment. This can compound the negative feelings of dry drunk symptoms and leave us stuck in the dry drunk stage. Let’s explore in more detail what AUD is to better understand why dry drunk symptoms can occur in recovery.
Alcohol use disorder is more than just a bad habit or lack of willpower — it is recognized as a mental disorder. Someone with AUD may not be able to stop drinking even if they experience harmful effects. In recovery, cutting out alcohol is a crucial step that involves emotional and behavioral challenges.
There are various stages of AUD, but regardless of the stage, the condition can have detrimental impacts on our life. A person’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being is severely affected by AUD, which can cause lingering effects of dry drunk symptoms even after quitting alcohol. Acknowledging AUD as a serious medical issue can help us understand why dry drunk syndrome can occur during recovery. Most important, it can help us prevail over these challenges.
Another common experience in recovery is post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Let’s take a closer look at what PAWS is to determine the similarities and differences between dry drunk syndrome and PAWS.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is the stage in which a person has moved past the acute stage of withdrawal but continues to experience psychological effects. The acute stage of withdrawal typically refers to the 24 hours after our last drink, whereas PAWS symptoms can last up to six months. Some common experiences of PAWS include mood fluctuations, lower stress tolerance, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and longing for a drink.
Dry drunk syndrome and PAWS have similar symptoms, but the terms are not used interchangeably. While neither condition is officially recognized in the DSM-5, both are common experiences for those in recovery from AUD. Medical professionals and researchers attribute dry drunk behaviors and symptoms to be part of PAWS. Let’s take a look at some of the specific symptoms that are associated with dry drunk syndrome.
Much the way symptoms of the flu can differ from person to person, dry drunk symptoms will also vary — but there are some common ones:
Recognizing dry drunk symptoms and behaviors is the first step in helping us work through them and progress along the road to real sobriety. Deciphering the causes of dry drunk behaviors can also help us better manage the symptoms.
Researchers continue to attempt to identify the causes of dry drunk behaviors, which are accepted as part of post-acute withdrawal. However, it is widely agreed that PAWS symptoms are a result of physiological changes in the brain that occur from dependence on a substance. PAWS not only occurs in recovery from AUD but also in recovery from other drug misuse, including opioids and marijuana.
Substance misuse affects neurotransmitters in the brain, which are altered after extended periods of exposure to the substance. When the substance is removed, our neurotransmitters need time to adjust — causing prolonged symptoms associated with dry drunk syndrome.
There are other factors besides alcohol that lead to AUD. Alcohol is commonly used as a coping mechanism or way to escape negative emotions or feelings. While the substance itself is removed in recovery, the issues leading to misuse in the first place may not have been dealt with yet. Therefore, the conflicting emotions and longing for alcohol that commonly occurs during the dry drunk period should be addressed. Recovery is often referred to as an identity transition that not only involves quitting drinking but also identifying and reworking the factors that led to alcohol misuse.
Quitting alcohol is arguably the most important step in AUD recovery, but staying in the dry drunk stage can be dangerous. It can be compared to painting over the cracks on a dilapidated house. From the outside, the house may look brand new, but until the cracks are repaired, the house can still come crumbling down — just like our health in the limbo dry drunk stage.
The dry drunk stage is a tricky place to be. We may be in a better place than when we were drinking, but continuing to experience the same behavioral and psychological effects can be tormenting. While the act of quitting alcohol can stop our physical health from declining, settling into this dry drunk stage can continue to negatively impact our mental health.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions are commonly associated with post-acute withdrawal. One of the dangers of not continuing to pursue full recovery is the risk of falling deeper into a negative mental space. This could then lead to a full-blown mental disorder and put us at risk for relapse. Although symptoms of dry drunk syndrome and PAWS may be difficult to navigate, they are important stages to surmount in order to transition from the dry drunk period to true sobriety. Since dry drunk symptoms can often bring about feelings of shame or discouragement, let’s take a closer look at the prevalence of dry drunk syndrome to help us understand more about the condition.
The experience of recovery is extremely individualized. However, due to the way alcohol interacts with the systems in our brain and body, we may have common symptoms and occurrences. While research on PAWS continues to require further study, UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior found that PAWS occurs in over 75% of those of us recovering from AUD.
Understanding that PAWS happens to many of us in recovery helps us feel less alone and can motivate us to continue to push through to full recovery. It can be discouraging to quit alcohol and continue to feel the same effects, but recognizing the prevalence and causes of dry drunk syndrome can help us better navigate it.
Now that we understand that dry drunk syndrome is a common occurrence, let's explore some strategies to overcome this challenge in recovery. Symptoms of dry drunk syndrome can be frustrating and demotivating, but here are four helpful ways to manage them.
Dry drunk symptoms are unpleasant, but implementing these strategies can make them less daunting. Having support from family and friends is also helpful in persisting along the path to full recovery.
Experiencing dry drunk symptoms in recovery can cause emotional distress and even discourage us from maintaining sobriety. Support from loved ones is integral in motivating those of us working to reduce or stop alcohol consumption to keep going. Here are some ways that our circle of support can help:
Many of us only hear of the silver linings of sobriety, but the reality is that recovery from AUD has no shortage of trials and tribulations. Dry drunk syndrome and its complicated symptoms can be discouraging for those of us in recovery. While the dry drunk stage is safer than alcohol misuse, there are detrimental effects if we stay stuck in it. The symptoms can be difficult to navigate, but with the strategies outlined and with support from friends and family, true sobriety is not a pipe dream. Dry drunk syndrome may visit us, but it’s not here to stay!
From family dynamics to personal relationships and community impact, the effects of alcohol misuse reach far and wide. Dive into the true impact of AUD and its social effects in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Chances are, you know someone who has a problem with alcohol. Maybe it’s a college roommate whose drinking spiraled out of control. Maybe it’s a parent or a sibling. And maybe you yourself have been stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of resolutions and slips in an attempt to cut back or quit.
If so, you’re not alone! According to the NIAAA 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 29.5 million people over the age of 12 had AUD in 2021. With numbers that high, it’s no wonder that AUD has wide-ranging social effects. But what’s the possible impact of alcohol use on the community? And what can we do about it? Let’s dig deeper!
According to NIAAA, AUD is “a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.” (For a deeper look, check out our blog: “Understanding the Stages of Alcohol Use Disorder: Causes and Treatment.”) It begins with alcohol misuse that gradually morphs into dependence.
If we try to stop drinking suddenly once we reach the stage of dependence, some unpleasant effects set in. These physical and mental withdrawal symptoms include nausea, shakiness, unease, anxiety, insomnia, and, in severe cases, seizures and delirium tremens. While these symptoms don’t last forever, they can be medically dangerous. It’s important to seek medical help if things get rough!
AUD takes a serious toll on all aspects of our lives, including our body, mind, and social life. Here’s an overview of the effects of alcohol on all three.
According to the NIAAA, alcohol affects pretty much every major organ system in the body. (For an in-depth look, check out our blog: “Alcohol’s Long-Term Effects on the Body: Adverse Outcomes To Be Aware Of”).
As we can see, alcohol does our body no favors. Despite what we may have heard about the supposed “benefits” of alcohol, the WHO makes this point clear: “When it comes to alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount that does not affect health.”
Anyone who’s ever been around a drunk person or someone struggling with AUD knows that alcohol misuse can cause emotional turmoil. While it manifests differently in everyone, there are a few common consequences of alcohol:
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please seek medical attention. In the United States, you can reach your local crisis hotline by dialing 988. Click here for a list of mental crisis phone numbers by country.
To learn more about the effects of alcohol misuse on our emotional and mental lives, take a look at our blog: “Understanding Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health.”
On the social side, alcohol misuse can wreak havoc on our relationships while also affecting society as a whole:
As we can see, the effects of AUD extend far beyond our own lives and even those of our loved ones. Let’s take a closer look at the far-reaching social effects of AUD.
AUD notoriously shifts the dynamics within families, interpersonal relationships, communities, and society at large. When it comes to AUD, there are profound social effects that take place at each level. Let’s dig deeper!
Living in a family affected by AUD can be a daily struggle. Whether it’s a fifth-grader embarrassed to see their mom tipsy at a field hockey game or a parent worried about the frequent bouts of binge drinking their college freshman son is doing, the stress can become overwhelming. Let’s take a closer look:
The light at the end of the tunnel? While families often bear the brunt of the hardships related to AUD, they can also play a key role in recovery. As an Alcohol Research article exploring the complexities of AUD and families shows, family support is crucial in seeking help for AUD as well as in putting the pieces together afterward.
Family members are not the only ones who feel the social effects of AUD — friends, colleagues, and romantic partners do as well. There are several consequences of drinking in social spheres outside the home:
Just as with family relationships, however, our interactions in other areas of life can help us overcome AUD. There’s nothing like the support of like-minded people when it comes to tackling this complex problem, and a strong social network can be a lifeline.
The social effects of AUD have large-scale implications for society as a whole:
All in all, AUD can’t be separated from the community at large. As John Donne wrote,“No man is an island”: we are all members of multiple communities and social networks that are deeply affected when alcohol misuse is in the picture.
Finally, let’s not forget the digital world — AUD leaves a dangerous footprint here as well:
No doubt — our online lives can land us in a minefield of triggers and give us opportunities to channel our alcohol-fueled impulses in unhealthy ways. However, the opposite is also true: we can use our digital lives to find support in online communities (such as Reframe!) and discover crucial information we need to understand and tackle AUD.
While the consequences of drinking in excess are serious, there are many ways to intervene and improve the situation. Outreach and prevention programs are a proven way to help. There are several different kinds:
So while there are many social consequences to drinking, communities also hold a lot of positive power. Change is possible!
So is there anything we can do about all of this? How do we keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities safe? Here are a few ideas:
With these tips, you can play an important role in addressing the social effects of alcohol and helping your community thrive!
While alcohol misuse can wreak havoc on communities, communities can do a lot to address the problem head-on. Often the very people who struggled with AUD themselves can play a crucial role in helping others.
In the words of writer Jodi Picoult, “Heroes didn't leap tall buildings or stop bullets with an outstretched hand … They bled, and they bruised, and their superpowers were as simple as listening, or loving. Heroes were ordinary people who knew that even if their own lives were impossibly knotted, they could untangle someone else's. And maybe that one act could lead someone to rescue you right back.”
Chances are, you know someone who has a problem with alcohol. Maybe it’s a college roommate whose drinking spiraled out of control. Maybe it’s a parent or a sibling. And maybe you yourself have been stuck in what feels like an endless cycle of resolutions and slips in an attempt to cut back or quit.
If so, you’re not alone! According to the NIAAA 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 29.5 million people over the age of 12 had AUD in 2021. With numbers that high, it’s no wonder that AUD has wide-ranging social effects. But what’s the possible impact of alcohol use on the community? And what can we do about it? Let’s dig deeper!
According to NIAAA, AUD is “a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.” (For a deeper look, check out our blog: “Understanding the Stages of Alcohol Use Disorder: Causes and Treatment.”) It begins with alcohol misuse that gradually morphs into dependence.
If we try to stop drinking suddenly once we reach the stage of dependence, some unpleasant effects set in. These physical and mental withdrawal symptoms include nausea, shakiness, unease, anxiety, insomnia, and, in severe cases, seizures and delirium tremens. While these symptoms don’t last forever, they can be medically dangerous. It’s important to seek medical help if things get rough!
AUD takes a serious toll on all aspects of our lives, including our body, mind, and social life. Here’s an overview of the effects of alcohol on all three.
According to the NIAAA, alcohol affects pretty much every major organ system in the body. (For an in-depth look, check out our blog: “Alcohol’s Long-Term Effects on the Body: Adverse Outcomes To Be Aware Of”).
As we can see, alcohol does our body no favors. Despite what we may have heard about the supposed “benefits” of alcohol, the WHO makes this point clear: “When it comes to alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount that does not affect health.”
Anyone who’s ever been around a drunk person or someone struggling with AUD knows that alcohol misuse can cause emotional turmoil. While it manifests differently in everyone, there are a few common consequences of alcohol:
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please seek medical attention. In the United States, you can reach your local crisis hotline by dialing 988. Click here for a list of mental crisis phone numbers by country.
To learn more about the effects of alcohol misuse on our emotional and mental lives, take a look at our blog: “Understanding Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health.”
On the social side, alcohol misuse can wreak havoc on our relationships while also affecting society as a whole:
As we can see, the effects of AUD extend far beyond our own lives and even those of our loved ones. Let’s take a closer look at the far-reaching social effects of AUD.
AUD notoriously shifts the dynamics within families, interpersonal relationships, communities, and society at large. When it comes to AUD, there are profound social effects that take place at each level. Let’s dig deeper!
Living in a family affected by AUD can be a daily struggle. Whether it’s a fifth-grader embarrassed to see their mom tipsy at a field hockey game or a parent worried about the frequent bouts of binge drinking their college freshman son is doing, the stress can become overwhelming. Let’s take a closer look:
The light at the end of the tunnel? While families often bear the brunt of the hardships related to AUD, they can also play a key role in recovery. As an Alcohol Research article exploring the complexities of AUD and families shows, family support is crucial in seeking help for AUD as well as in putting the pieces together afterward.
Family members are not the only ones who feel the social effects of AUD — friends, colleagues, and romantic partners do as well. There are several consequences of drinking in social spheres outside the home:
Just as with family relationships, however, our interactions in other areas of life can help us overcome AUD. There’s nothing like the support of like-minded people when it comes to tackling this complex problem, and a strong social network can be a lifeline.
The social effects of AUD have large-scale implications for society as a whole:
All in all, AUD can’t be separated from the community at large. As John Donne wrote,“No man is an island”: we are all members of multiple communities and social networks that are deeply affected when alcohol misuse is in the picture.
Finally, let’s not forget the digital world — AUD leaves a dangerous footprint here as well:
No doubt — our online lives can land us in a minefield of triggers and give us opportunities to channel our alcohol-fueled impulses in unhealthy ways. However, the opposite is also true: we can use our digital lives to find support in online communities (such as Reframe!) and discover crucial information we need to understand and tackle AUD.
While the consequences of drinking in excess are serious, there are many ways to intervene and improve the situation. Outreach and prevention programs are a proven way to help. There are several different kinds:
So while there are many social consequences to drinking, communities also hold a lot of positive power. Change is possible!
So is there anything we can do about all of this? How do we keep ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities safe? Here are a few ideas:
With these tips, you can play an important role in addressing the social effects of alcohol and helping your community thrive!
While alcohol misuse can wreak havoc on communities, communities can do a lot to address the problem head-on. Often the very people who struggled with AUD themselves can play a crucial role in helping others.
In the words of writer Jodi Picoult, “Heroes didn't leap tall buildings or stop bullets with an outstretched hand … They bled, and they bruised, and their superpowers were as simple as listening, or loving. Heroes were ordinary people who knew that even if their own lives were impossibly knotted, they could untangle someone else's. And maybe that one act could lead someone to rescue you right back.”
As an SSRI, Prozac is used to treat depression or anxiety disorders. Drinking while on Prozac can make our symptoms of depression worse and intensify the side effects of both substances.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
It's winter, the days are getting shorter, and it always seems dark. Suddenly, our interests become less exciting, we don’t have the energy to socialize, and everything feels a little dull and gray.
This is an incredibly common scenario — hundreds of millions of people worldwide experience depression every year, and many more go undiagnosed. Luckily, there is a huge variety of treatments to help ease symptoms. The most common medication used to treat depression is called fluoxetine, also known as Prozac. It works quickly: symptoms typically start to improve after a few weeks, and for many of us, the color starts to come back into life.
Let’s imagine that we start taking Prozac, start to feel better, and decide to resume our life. Things are looking up, and we finally feel up to socializing. So, we decide to accept our friend’s invitation to a cocktail party — but is it safe to drink alcohol while we are on Prozac?
In this blog, we’ll learn how Prozac interacts with alcohol and worsens depression. Let’s look at the science and explore alcohol-free activities that can help us cope with depression.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Common SSRI medications include Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft, or Paxil. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of SSRIs to treat the following conditions:
SSRIs work by boosting the effectiveness of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which plays a critical role in regulating our mood, emotions, appetite, memory, sleep, and social behavior. Serotonin is often referred to as the “happy” chemical. That happiness we feel from spending time with a friend or walking in nature is the result of an increase in serotonin in the brain.
After being produced, serotonin latches onto nearby neurons to trigger signals to different parts of our brain. Our body often produces more serotonin than we actually need, and our brain remedies this surplus through a natural process called reuptake, in which it reabsorbs and recycles the extra serotonin. SSRIs inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, leaving more hanging around to latch onto brain cells and boosting signal triggering.
People with depression and anxiety disorders often have a reduction in serotonin production. By inhibiting the reuptake process, SSRIs help give that smaller amount a chance to bind to nearby cells before reuptake can happen.
Prozac is an SSRI prescribed to treat depression, OCD, and panic disorders. It helps people with mood disorders, but as with all medications, there are trade-offs. Some common side effects associated with Prozac include the following:
Not everyone will experience these side effects, although most of us will experience at least one. If they are too unpleasant, our doctor may recommend discontinuing the medication, after which the side effects should clear up.
Minor side effects are common with Prozac, however, there are also some serious potential side effects that require immediate medical attention.
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned about the side effects associated with your Prozac prescription — and always be honest about what substances you are taking.
Coping with alcohol may seem like a good solution because of the temporary relief it provides. However, drinking alcohol will actually make our depression worse! Here are some reasons why:
When we drink regularly, our brain compensates for the increased dopamine, GABA, and serotonin. Our brain adapts to this new chemical landscape altering the receptors available to these neurotransmitters, making it harder for us to have those positive feelings. These changes in our brain make us more susceptible to depression (luckily, this effect is reversible!).
All of this neurochemical chaos is more dramatic when we introduce other drugs, including SSRIs.
As we’ve learned, alcohol and SSRIs both influence the function of serotonin by making it more effective. Increased serotonin levels in turn can increase levels of dopamine and GABA. When we introduce both substances in the brain, they amplify one another’s side effects, including the following:
While some alcohol-Prozac interactions are merely unpleasant, some can actually be dangerous.
The combination of alcohol and Prozac may not sound too threatening, but mixing the two can be extremely dangerous at heavy levels of use. As we previously learned, alcohol can enhance the side effects of Prozac. Let’s discover some of the dangers related to using an SSRI and alcohol at the same time.
Drinking alcohol while taking Prozac poses a serious risk to our overall health. Since most of these dangers aren’t necessarily life-threatening, is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Prozac?
While there’s no warning label on Prozac that says drinking alcohol is an immediate danger to our life, it’s not recommended to drink alcohol while on Prozac. Having a couple drinks while taking Prozac may not be life-threatening, but we might feel drunker faster or develop more intense feelings of depression or anxiety.
Ultimately, we are taking Prozac to improve our depression and anxiety. Alcohol is scientifically proven to increase depression and anxiety. If we want our symptoms to improve, it’s best to take a break from alcohol.
If we do want to drink, there are a few ways to mitigate risks and limit alcohol’s negative effects.
Following these tips will allow us to enjoy an occasional drink without counteracting the Prozac too much. However, for Prozac to be fully effective, it’s best to stop drinking altogether. Let’s talk about some other ways to unwind or have fun without alcohol!
As we learned, it is best not to drink alcohol while on Prozac. The good news is, there are still plenty of ways to be social and have fun without alcohol!
SSRIs such as Prozac are used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by blocking the reuptake of serotonin. Drinking alcohol with depression or anxiety can worsen symptoms and decrease the effectiveness of Prozac. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid drinking while taking Prozac. Thankfully, there are many ways to thrive without alcohol!
It's winter, the days are getting shorter, and it always seems dark. Suddenly, our interests become less exciting, we don’t have the energy to socialize, and everything feels a little dull and gray.
This is an incredibly common scenario — hundreds of millions of people worldwide experience depression every year, and many more go undiagnosed. Luckily, there is a huge variety of treatments to help ease symptoms. The most common medication used to treat depression is called fluoxetine, also known as Prozac. It works quickly: symptoms typically start to improve after a few weeks, and for many of us, the color starts to come back into life.
Let’s imagine that we start taking Prozac, start to feel better, and decide to resume our life. Things are looking up, and we finally feel up to socializing. So, we decide to accept our friend’s invitation to a cocktail party — but is it safe to drink alcohol while we are on Prozac?
In this blog, we’ll learn how Prozac interacts with alcohol and worsens depression. Let’s look at the science and explore alcohol-free activities that can help us cope with depression.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Common SSRI medications include Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft, or Paxil. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of SSRIs to treat the following conditions:
SSRIs work by boosting the effectiveness of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which plays a critical role in regulating our mood, emotions, appetite, memory, sleep, and social behavior. Serotonin is often referred to as the “happy” chemical. That happiness we feel from spending time with a friend or walking in nature is the result of an increase in serotonin in the brain.
After being produced, serotonin latches onto nearby neurons to trigger signals to different parts of our brain. Our body often produces more serotonin than we actually need, and our brain remedies this surplus through a natural process called reuptake, in which it reabsorbs and recycles the extra serotonin. SSRIs inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, leaving more hanging around to latch onto brain cells and boosting signal triggering.
People with depression and anxiety disorders often have a reduction in serotonin production. By inhibiting the reuptake process, SSRIs help give that smaller amount a chance to bind to nearby cells before reuptake can happen.
Prozac is an SSRI prescribed to treat depression, OCD, and panic disorders. It helps people with mood disorders, but as with all medications, there are trade-offs. Some common side effects associated with Prozac include the following:
Not everyone will experience these side effects, although most of us will experience at least one. If they are too unpleasant, our doctor may recommend discontinuing the medication, after which the side effects should clear up.
Minor side effects are common with Prozac, however, there are also some serious potential side effects that require immediate medical attention.
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned about the side effects associated with your Prozac prescription — and always be honest about what substances you are taking.
Coping with alcohol may seem like a good solution because of the temporary relief it provides. However, drinking alcohol will actually make our depression worse! Here are some reasons why:
When we drink regularly, our brain compensates for the increased dopamine, GABA, and serotonin. Our brain adapts to this new chemical landscape altering the receptors available to these neurotransmitters, making it harder for us to have those positive feelings. These changes in our brain make us more susceptible to depression (luckily, this effect is reversible!).
All of this neurochemical chaos is more dramatic when we introduce other drugs, including SSRIs.
As we’ve learned, alcohol and SSRIs both influence the function of serotonin by making it more effective. Increased serotonin levels in turn can increase levels of dopamine and GABA. When we introduce both substances in the brain, they amplify one another’s side effects, including the following:
While some alcohol-Prozac interactions are merely unpleasant, some can actually be dangerous.
The combination of alcohol and Prozac may not sound too threatening, but mixing the two can be extremely dangerous at heavy levels of use. As we previously learned, alcohol can enhance the side effects of Prozac. Let’s discover some of the dangers related to using an SSRI and alcohol at the same time.
Drinking alcohol while taking Prozac poses a serious risk to our overall health. Since most of these dangers aren’t necessarily life-threatening, is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Prozac?
While there’s no warning label on Prozac that says drinking alcohol is an immediate danger to our life, it’s not recommended to drink alcohol while on Prozac. Having a couple drinks while taking Prozac may not be life-threatening, but we might feel drunker faster or develop more intense feelings of depression or anxiety.
Ultimately, we are taking Prozac to improve our depression and anxiety. Alcohol is scientifically proven to increase depression and anxiety. If we want our symptoms to improve, it’s best to take a break from alcohol.
If we do want to drink, there are a few ways to mitigate risks and limit alcohol’s negative effects.
Following these tips will allow us to enjoy an occasional drink without counteracting the Prozac too much. However, for Prozac to be fully effective, it’s best to stop drinking altogether. Let’s talk about some other ways to unwind or have fun without alcohol!
As we learned, it is best not to drink alcohol while on Prozac. The good news is, there are still plenty of ways to be social and have fun without alcohol!
SSRIs such as Prozac are used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by blocking the reuptake of serotonin. Drinking alcohol with depression or anxiety can worsen symptoms and decrease the effectiveness of Prozac. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid drinking while taking Prozac. Thankfully, there are many ways to thrive without alcohol!
Does spirituality play a role in recovery? Absolutely! It’s all about finding meaning and connecting to a community or source of inspiration that’s greater than ourselves.
Relationships are rarely a bed of roses, but there is always room for improvement. Reframe is a great place to start down that road.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions worldwide drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less but thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also be able to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
In Passage Meditation — A Complete Spiritual Practice: Train Your Mind and Find a Life That Fulfills, the renowned meditation teacher and author Eknath Easwaran writes: “There is a tale of a man who found on the road a large stone bearing the words, ‘Under me lies a great truth.’ The man strained to turn the stone over and finally succeeded. On the bottom was written, ‘Why do you want a new truth when you do not practice what you already know?’”
In this way, recovery begins to look like the “rediscovery” of a new and improved version of ourselves that already exists but has been hidden by addiction. Let’s look within and set it free!
Addiction affects every aspect of our lives, and recovery isn’t just a physical, mental, and emotional process — it is a spiritual one as well. For some, the word “spirituality” might set off alarm bells, especially if they’ve had negative experiences with organized religion.
Rest assured, spirituality doesn’t have to mean going to church or performing religious rituals!
Instead, let’s look at it as a broader concept that has to do with finding meaning in life. Recovery is all about finding a new source of meaning and rediscovering our true sense of self — an inherently creative (and exciting!) process.
There are several elements of spirituality that are particularly relevant to recovery:
There are many benefits to adding a spiritual element to our recovery journey.
Not all spiritual approaches will work for everyone, and that’s okay! Luckily, there are many “paths to the same mountain,” as they say.
In a Journal of Religion and Health review article titled “Belief, Behavior, and Belonging: How Faith is Indispensable in Preventing and Recovering from Substance Abuse,” Melissa and Brian Grim describe their analysis of 130,000 congregation-based substance abuse programs that feature faith-based approaches to recovery. They argue that these programs greatly contribute to the field of addiction recovery, often without any cost to taxpayers. The vast majority (87%) of the studies they reviewed as part of their research point to faith as “faith is a positive factor in addiction prevention or recovery.”
That said, if traditional religion isn’t for you, no problem! There are other options to explore.
While the 12 steps of programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) are also not for everyone, they’re a great example of how spirituality could provide a useful structure and set of principles that help our recovery. The first three steps are all about admitting powerlessness and asking a “Higher Power” to “restore us to sanity.” This formulation may not resonate with everyone, but the point is simple: what happened to us is not our fault, and our experience with alcohol doesn’t have to mean that there’s anything “wrong” with us. Alcohol is addictive, and we simply fell into the same set of habits that millions of others have fallen into. Luckily, we have options: we can look at our situation from a broader perspective and realize that help is available.
When viewed in this light, the “Higher Power” doesn’t have to be the traditional “God” — many AA members actually choose to see the group itself as a collective power generated by like-minded people coming together to help one another in a way that would be impossible to do alone. In any case, if this approach resonates with you, go ahead and give it a try!
In the words of writer and motivational speaker Wayne Dyer, our thoughts determine our reality. “Remember, you become what you think about all day long. How often do you clutter your mind with thoughts of non-peace? … All of these thoughts and their expressions are indications that you have become trapped in a non-peaceful mind and, therefore, a non-peaceful world.”
A way out of this “thought trap” is mindfulness, a core element in many spiritual traditions and an excellent form of spiritual recovery practice in itself. Mindfulness is incredibly simple: all it requires is to observe our own thoughts or perform any activity with our whole attention focused on it. As a spiritual recovery practice, it can help us break out of “non-peaceful” thoughts, including ones that push us closer to our addictions and habits.
There are countless benefits of mindfulness that have now been backed by science. For one thing, neuroscience research tells us that mindfulness benefits the brain by rewiring circuits responsible for stress and chronic pain and boosting those related to focus and attention! There have been many recent studies that show mindfulness as one of the best ways to boost our mental and physical health.
According to an article in the NIH newsletter News in Health, practicing mindfulness can help with a host of mental health issues, including depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and addiction. Additionally, mindfulness has other health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing stroke risk).
And as neuroimaging studies have shown, mindfulness can physically change the neurological wiring of our brain. A large-scale study in BioMed Research International titled “The Meditative Mind: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of MRI Studies” paints an impressive picture of the brain “on mindfulness.” According to many studies reviewed within the report, participating in mindfulness-based practices physically rewires the brain, engaging circuits that promote resilience, self-awareness, and reduced impulsivity.
Spending time in nature is yet another way to connect to something greater than ourselves (without the need for organized religion or the 12 Steps). One of the best expressions of this sentiment comes from American Transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson. In Nature, he writes: “In the woods, we return to reason and faith. There I feel that nothing can befall me in life,—no disgrace, no calamity, (leaving me my eyes,) which nature cannot repair.”
Nature has proven to be just as versatile within therapeutic contexts. Recently, ecotherapy has been touted as a great form of treatment for those who might be reluctant to engage in traditional talk therapy. According to psychologist Maurie Lung, “One of the top benefits that we address are for people who are trying to reduce anxiety or depression and increase relationship and connection … it’s super engaging, so for kids and teenagers ... [and] for people who are reluctant to be in therapy.”
There are many ways we can use nature as a therapeutic and spiritual springboard. There’s no need to travel tens or hundreds of miles to a faraway National Park, forest, or beach — a city park or even your own backyard will do. All we need to find is a small sanctuary away from the noise and traffic where we can feel connected to natural surroundings and walk or just simply sit and meditate.
As author Kurt Vonnegut said, “To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it.” Creativity is, indeed, another way to grow spiritually while supporting our recovery. After all, rediscovering our true self and our new purpose is an inherently creative process. That’s also what makes it fun!
One of the clearest ways in which creative pursuits can become a spiritual practice is through the state of “flow.” Defined by psychologist and author Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi as optimal experience done for its own sake, flow is liberating and spiritually fulfilling: “It is when we act freely, for the sake of the action itself rather than for ulterior motives, that we learn to become more than what we were. When we choose a goal and invest ourselves in it to the limits of concentration, whatever we do will be enjoyable. And once we have tasted this joy, we will redouble our efforts to taste it again. This is the way the self grows.”
We can achieve flow through any activity that captures our creative attention — painting, writing, gardening, cooking, or creating a digital photo collage. Flow is all about the process instead of the result (no need to be a Picasso, Chopin, or even a Top Chef contestant). By absorbing ourselves fully in the creative process, we automatically tap into something greater than ourselves — and that’s where things start to get spiritual!
Science shows that engaging in activities that make us feel fully absorbed — the kind that give us the sense of being outside of time — naturally quiet the part of our brain that’s in charge of judgments and ruminating thoughts. Such activities serve as a boost of dopamine — the feel-good neurotransmitters that get depleted with increased alcohol use. While there are many “flavors” of flow (for example, artistic pursuits or socializing with friends), spiritual practices such as prayer or meditation are among the best ways to get into this state.
How can we start getting in touch with our spiritual side and tap into the power of spiritual recovery? Here are some ideas:
Finally, let’s look at some specific suggestions for incorporating spirituality into daily life to support recovery. Drawing on the wisdom of Wayne Dyer once again, let’s take a look at how he advises us to incorporate spiritual elements into our daily lives for optimal growth (as well as recovery from addictive behaviors) in There’s a Spiritual Solution to Every Problem. His words resonate with many and have a trademark touch of warmth and compassion.
In Divine Living: The Essential Guide To Your True Destiny, destiny coach Anthon St. Maarten writes, “Intuition goes before you, showing you the way. Emotion follows behind, to let you know when you go astray. Listen to your inner voice: it is the calling of your spiritual GPS system seeking to keep you on track towards your true destiny.” Let’s turn to our “spiritual GPS” to jumpstart our own version of spiritual recovery!
In Passage Meditation — A Complete Spiritual Practice: Train Your Mind and Find a Life That Fulfills, the renowned meditation teacher and author Eknath Easwaran writes: “There is a tale of a man who found on the road a large stone bearing the words, ‘Under me lies a great truth.’ The man strained to turn the stone over and finally succeeded. On the bottom was written, ‘Why do you want a new truth when you do not practice what you already know?’”
In this way, recovery begins to look like the “rediscovery” of a new and improved version of ourselves that already exists but has been hidden by addiction. Let’s look within and set it free!
Addiction affects every aspect of our lives, and recovery isn’t just a physical, mental, and emotional process — it is a spiritual one as well. For some, the word “spirituality” might set off alarm bells, especially if they’ve had negative experiences with organized religion.
Rest assured, spirituality doesn’t have to mean going to church or performing religious rituals!
Instead, let’s look at it as a broader concept that has to do with finding meaning in life. Recovery is all about finding a new source of meaning and rediscovering our true sense of self — an inherently creative (and exciting!) process.
There are several elements of spirituality that are particularly relevant to recovery:
There are many benefits to adding a spiritual element to our recovery journey.
Not all spiritual approaches will work for everyone, and that’s okay! Luckily, there are many “paths to the same mountain,” as they say.
In a Journal of Religion and Health review article titled “Belief, Behavior, and Belonging: How Faith is Indispensable in Preventing and Recovering from Substance Abuse,” Melissa and Brian Grim describe their analysis of 130,000 congregation-based substance abuse programs that feature faith-based approaches to recovery. They argue that these programs greatly contribute to the field of addiction recovery, often without any cost to taxpayers. The vast majority (87%) of the studies they reviewed as part of their research point to faith as “faith is a positive factor in addiction prevention or recovery.”
That said, if traditional religion isn’t for you, no problem! There are other options to explore.
While the 12 steps of programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) are also not for everyone, they’re a great example of how spirituality could provide a useful structure and set of principles that help our recovery. The first three steps are all about admitting powerlessness and asking a “Higher Power” to “restore us to sanity.” This formulation may not resonate with everyone, but the point is simple: what happened to us is not our fault, and our experience with alcohol doesn’t have to mean that there’s anything “wrong” with us. Alcohol is addictive, and we simply fell into the same set of habits that millions of others have fallen into. Luckily, we have options: we can look at our situation from a broader perspective and realize that help is available.
When viewed in this light, the “Higher Power” doesn’t have to be the traditional “God” — many AA members actually choose to see the group itself as a collective power generated by like-minded people coming together to help one another in a way that would be impossible to do alone. In any case, if this approach resonates with you, go ahead and give it a try!
In the words of writer and motivational speaker Wayne Dyer, our thoughts determine our reality. “Remember, you become what you think about all day long. How often do you clutter your mind with thoughts of non-peace? … All of these thoughts and their expressions are indications that you have become trapped in a non-peaceful mind and, therefore, a non-peaceful world.”
A way out of this “thought trap” is mindfulness, a core element in many spiritual traditions and an excellent form of spiritual recovery practice in itself. Mindfulness is incredibly simple: all it requires is to observe our own thoughts or perform any activity with our whole attention focused on it. As a spiritual recovery practice, it can help us break out of “non-peaceful” thoughts, including ones that push us closer to our addictions and habits.
There are countless benefits of mindfulness that have now been backed by science. For one thing, neuroscience research tells us that mindfulness benefits the brain by rewiring circuits responsible for stress and chronic pain and boosting those related to focus and attention! There have been many recent studies that show mindfulness as one of the best ways to boost our mental and physical health.
According to an article in the NIH newsletter News in Health, practicing mindfulness can help with a host of mental health issues, including depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and addiction. Additionally, mindfulness has other health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing stroke risk).
And as neuroimaging studies have shown, mindfulness can physically change the neurological wiring of our brain. A large-scale study in BioMed Research International titled “The Meditative Mind: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of MRI Studies” paints an impressive picture of the brain “on mindfulness.” According to many studies reviewed within the report, participating in mindfulness-based practices physically rewires the brain, engaging circuits that promote resilience, self-awareness, and reduced impulsivity.
Spending time in nature is yet another way to connect to something greater than ourselves (without the need for organized religion or the 12 Steps). One of the best expressions of this sentiment comes from American Transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson. In Nature, he writes: “In the woods, we return to reason and faith. There I feel that nothing can befall me in life,—no disgrace, no calamity, (leaving me my eyes,) which nature cannot repair.”
Nature has proven to be just as versatile within therapeutic contexts. Recently, ecotherapy has been touted as a great form of treatment for those who might be reluctant to engage in traditional talk therapy. According to psychologist Maurie Lung, “One of the top benefits that we address are for people who are trying to reduce anxiety or depression and increase relationship and connection … it’s super engaging, so for kids and teenagers ... [and] for people who are reluctant to be in therapy.”
There are many ways we can use nature as a therapeutic and spiritual springboard. There’s no need to travel tens or hundreds of miles to a faraway National Park, forest, or beach — a city park or even your own backyard will do. All we need to find is a small sanctuary away from the noise and traffic where we can feel connected to natural surroundings and walk or just simply sit and meditate.
As author Kurt Vonnegut said, “To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it.” Creativity is, indeed, another way to grow spiritually while supporting our recovery. After all, rediscovering our true self and our new purpose is an inherently creative process. That’s also what makes it fun!
One of the clearest ways in which creative pursuits can become a spiritual practice is through the state of “flow.” Defined by psychologist and author Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi as optimal experience done for its own sake, flow is liberating and spiritually fulfilling: “It is when we act freely, for the sake of the action itself rather than for ulterior motives, that we learn to become more than what we were. When we choose a goal and invest ourselves in it to the limits of concentration, whatever we do will be enjoyable. And once we have tasted this joy, we will redouble our efforts to taste it again. This is the way the self grows.”
We can achieve flow through any activity that captures our creative attention — painting, writing, gardening, cooking, or creating a digital photo collage. Flow is all about the process instead of the result (no need to be a Picasso, Chopin, or even a Top Chef contestant). By absorbing ourselves fully in the creative process, we automatically tap into something greater than ourselves — and that’s where things start to get spiritual!
Science shows that engaging in activities that make us feel fully absorbed — the kind that give us the sense of being outside of time — naturally quiet the part of our brain that’s in charge of judgments and ruminating thoughts. Such activities serve as a boost of dopamine — the feel-good neurotransmitters that get depleted with increased alcohol use. While there are many “flavors” of flow (for example, artistic pursuits or socializing with friends), spiritual practices such as prayer or meditation are among the best ways to get into this state.
How can we start getting in touch with our spiritual side and tap into the power of spiritual recovery? Here are some ideas:
Finally, let’s look at some specific suggestions for incorporating spirituality into daily life to support recovery. Drawing on the wisdom of Wayne Dyer once again, let’s take a look at how he advises us to incorporate spiritual elements into our daily lives for optimal growth (as well as recovery from addictive behaviors) in There’s a Spiritual Solution to Every Problem. His words resonate with many and have a trademark touch of warmth and compassion.
In Divine Living: The Essential Guide To Your True Destiny, destiny coach Anthon St. Maarten writes, “Intuition goes before you, showing you the way. Emotion follows behind, to let you know when you go astray. Listen to your inner voice: it is the calling of your spiritual GPS system seeking to keep you on track towards your true destiny.” Let’s turn to our “spiritual GPS” to jumpstart our own version of spiritual recovery!
The link between alcohol and domestic violence is complex and multifaceted. The signs of domestic violence are often vague and difficult to recognize.
Relationships are rarely a bed of roses, but there is always room for improvement. Reframe is a great place to start down that road.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions worldwide drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less but thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also be able to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Consider the last time you argued with your partner, spouse, or roommate. Was it about some low-priority issue like what to make for dinner, who’s paying which bills, or the thermostat setting? Or maybe it was about something more substantial, like buying a car, changing jobs, or moving away. Most of us in relationships occasionally argue — it’s bound to happen when we share space and life with others. And that’s okay! Most arguments get resolved (or not) without significant consequences.
Unfortunately, there’s another darker side to this story. While for many of us, home is where we find solace, comfort, and understanding, for others, home is anything but comforting and safe.
For too many of us, home is a verbal and sometimes physical battleground. It’s a place where arguments — often fueled by alcohol — escalate into a frightening and potentially dangerous situation. Many of us, sadly, are victims of domestic violence.
Let’s delve into the realm of domestic violence by examining its complexities, causes, and the impact it has on those involved.
If you feel unsafe at home or want resources for escaping an abusive home environment, call the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233).
Domestic violence is a complex, multifaceted social issue. Once referred to as family violence, the broader term “domestic violence” is more inclusive and encompasses all forms of relationships. It’s also important to note that domestic violence is not just limited to physical abuse but may include elements of emotional, psychological, and, sometimes, financial abuse. According to Barocas et al. (2016), defining domestic violence more broadly helps to align other existing definitions and standards, and it makes more effective interventions available to those of us affected by domestic violence.
How did adopting a broader view of domestic violence change our understanding of it? Previously, domestic abuse billboards and pamphlets showed women with blackened eyes, depicting them as typical domestic violence victims. Today, we know that characterizing domestic violence in that way describes only a small subset of its victims. After all, domestic violence doesn’t discriminate: it affects individuals across gender lines, ages, income levels, and backgrounds.
Alcohol’s influence on domestic violence is well-recognized. Contrary to common perception, people of all genders can be both perpetrators and victims.
So, how common is this problem?
According to the CDC, one in four women and one in seven men will experience physical violence by their intimate partner at some point during their lifetimes. Intimate partner violence reportedly occurs in over 10 million people, or 3.92% of the U.S. adult population each year.
This may seem like a shocking number. To fully understand the challenges and complexities of domestic violence requires our understanding of its dynamics and contributing factors.
We learned that domestic violence is not exclusive to one gender. This belief contradicts the previous belief that only men can be abusive and overlooks that people of all genders can exhibit harmful behavior, especially when alcohol is involved. Let’s start with some research on the issue.
Looking at the dynamics of domestic violence, Babock et al. (2019) found that of all reported instances of domestic abuse by their study participants, almost an equal percentage were male-initiated violence (15%) and female-initiated violence (15.5%). Twenty-five percent of study participants reported engaging in mutual violence, whereas 40.2% of females and 34.5% of males reported their involvement in domestic violence occurred in self-defense. This study supports the notion that for most participants, domestic violence is not a one-way street; both men and women initiated domestic violence or were engaged in mutual violence.
Alcohol adds another level of complexity to domestic violence because it juxtaposes behavioral and psychological factors. When we consider the relationship between alcohol and domestic violence, we need to ask a couple questions: are all alcoholics abusive? Why are some people abusive when drunk?
Exploring the link between alcohol and domestic violence requires a clear understanding of how alcohol affects the brain and how it impacts our decision making and impulse control. Let’s start there!
Alcohol is classified as a depressant because of the way it affects our central nervous system (CNS). When we consume alcohol, its depressant effects slow down communication between nerves in our brains. Drinking has a sedating effect, slowing our reaction times, impairing our coordination, and generally relaxing us. While many of us may initially feel euphoric or more sociable, excessive alcohol consumption typically intensifies its depressant effects, leading to lethargy, confusion, and even unconsciousness.
Many studies have looked at the relationship between alcohol and personality as a factor in violence in general. They found that emotional instability and impulsivity — combined with personality disorders, genetic predisposition, and environmental stressors — can trigger aggression while under the influence of alcohol.
The American Addictions Center identified antisocial disorder, conduct problems, and borderline personality disorder (among several other risk factors) in alcohol-related domestic violence. The addition of personality as a factor in alcohol-related domestic violence attests to how complex this problem is.
So far, we have learned that alcohol consumption affects our central nervous system, which in turn alters how our brain functions, especially when we drink excessively. But how does this translate into domestic violence, especially when personality and other issues are factored in? The short answer: it’s complicated!
Let’s start with impaired judgment and impulsivity. Under the influence of alcohol, people tend to say and do things they normally wouldn’t while sober. This tendency is often referred to as alcohol’s disinhibiting effect. Here’s an example of how alcohol transforms typical behavior into something entirely different.
A couple is having a quiet evening at home while sharing a bottle of wine. During the evening, an argument starts over something inconsequential. Usually, this isn’t a huge issue; neither person blows up when sober. However, with three drinks down, the couple’s argument quickly transforms into a shouting match, name-calling, and some pushing and shoving. Slower reactions, impaired judgment, and impulsivity due to their drinking eventually lead to kicking and punching and cuts and bruises.
For some, the above scenario may be a one-off. Still, for many others, it can become a cyclical pattern, especially if one or both people are struggling with alcohol abuse or dependence. Without intervention, a destructive pattern of drinking and domestic violence often continues.
The research we’ve talked about paints a concerning picture. So can alcohol make you violent? And are alcoholics abusive? Dispelling misconceptions about domestic violence is a pivotal step toward creating a safer environment for those of us affected by it.
Two misconceptions are that all alcoholics are abusive or that all people are abusive when drunk. Neither is true, nor is the suggestion that all abusers are alcoholics. The link between alcohol and domestic violence is not exact. The reality is many people engage in domestic violence without drinking, while many alcoholics are never violent toward a partner.
The relationship between alcohol and abuse, especially when we try to account for the influence of personality and other factors, is a complex, many-layered puzzle. (Consider this blog just the basics; no single source can plumb the depths of such a multifaceted issue.)
While the most apparent signs of domestic violence are physical altercations, there are several nonphysical ways partners can exhibit abusive behaviors:
If you live in the U.S. and are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.
Luckily, there are resources available to overcome domestic violence.
Understanding the complex and diverse nature of abuse and taking proactive steps is the best way to foster healthier relationships. There are ways to move forward and step into a safe, happy life free from violence. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol is a highly effective way to see the situation in a new light and take stock of how to move forward.
Consider the last time you argued with your partner, spouse, or roommate. Was it about some low-priority issue like what to make for dinner, who’s paying which bills, or the thermostat setting? Or maybe it was about something more substantial, like buying a car, changing jobs, or moving away. Most of us in relationships occasionally argue — it’s bound to happen when we share space and life with others. And that’s okay! Most arguments get resolved (or not) without significant consequences.
Unfortunately, there’s another darker side to this story. While for many of us, home is where we find solace, comfort, and understanding, for others, home is anything but comforting and safe.
For too many of us, home is a verbal and sometimes physical battleground. It’s a place where arguments — often fueled by alcohol — escalate into a frightening and potentially dangerous situation. Many of us, sadly, are victims of domestic violence.
Let’s delve into the realm of domestic violence by examining its complexities, causes, and the impact it has on those involved.
If you feel unsafe at home or want resources for escaping an abusive home environment, call the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233).
Domestic violence is a complex, multifaceted social issue. Once referred to as family violence, the broader term “domestic violence” is more inclusive and encompasses all forms of relationships. It’s also important to note that domestic violence is not just limited to physical abuse but may include elements of emotional, psychological, and, sometimes, financial abuse. According to Barocas et al. (2016), defining domestic violence more broadly helps to align other existing definitions and standards, and it makes more effective interventions available to those of us affected by domestic violence.
How did adopting a broader view of domestic violence change our understanding of it? Previously, domestic abuse billboards and pamphlets showed women with blackened eyes, depicting them as typical domestic violence victims. Today, we know that characterizing domestic violence in that way describes only a small subset of its victims. After all, domestic violence doesn’t discriminate: it affects individuals across gender lines, ages, income levels, and backgrounds.
Alcohol’s influence on domestic violence is well-recognized. Contrary to common perception, people of all genders can be both perpetrators and victims.
So, how common is this problem?
According to the CDC, one in four women and one in seven men will experience physical violence by their intimate partner at some point during their lifetimes. Intimate partner violence reportedly occurs in over 10 million people, or 3.92% of the U.S. adult population each year.
This may seem like a shocking number. To fully understand the challenges and complexities of domestic violence requires our understanding of its dynamics and contributing factors.
We learned that domestic violence is not exclusive to one gender. This belief contradicts the previous belief that only men can be abusive and overlooks that people of all genders can exhibit harmful behavior, especially when alcohol is involved. Let’s start with some research on the issue.
Looking at the dynamics of domestic violence, Babock et al. (2019) found that of all reported instances of domestic abuse by their study participants, almost an equal percentage were male-initiated violence (15%) and female-initiated violence (15.5%). Twenty-five percent of study participants reported engaging in mutual violence, whereas 40.2% of females and 34.5% of males reported their involvement in domestic violence occurred in self-defense. This study supports the notion that for most participants, domestic violence is not a one-way street; both men and women initiated domestic violence or were engaged in mutual violence.
Alcohol adds another level of complexity to domestic violence because it juxtaposes behavioral and psychological factors. When we consider the relationship between alcohol and domestic violence, we need to ask a couple questions: are all alcoholics abusive? Why are some people abusive when drunk?
Exploring the link between alcohol and domestic violence requires a clear understanding of how alcohol affects the brain and how it impacts our decision making and impulse control. Let’s start there!
Alcohol is classified as a depressant because of the way it affects our central nervous system (CNS). When we consume alcohol, its depressant effects slow down communication between nerves in our brains. Drinking has a sedating effect, slowing our reaction times, impairing our coordination, and generally relaxing us. While many of us may initially feel euphoric or more sociable, excessive alcohol consumption typically intensifies its depressant effects, leading to lethargy, confusion, and even unconsciousness.
Many studies have looked at the relationship between alcohol and personality as a factor in violence in general. They found that emotional instability and impulsivity — combined with personality disorders, genetic predisposition, and environmental stressors — can trigger aggression while under the influence of alcohol.
The American Addictions Center identified antisocial disorder, conduct problems, and borderline personality disorder (among several other risk factors) in alcohol-related domestic violence. The addition of personality as a factor in alcohol-related domestic violence attests to how complex this problem is.
So far, we have learned that alcohol consumption affects our central nervous system, which in turn alters how our brain functions, especially when we drink excessively. But how does this translate into domestic violence, especially when personality and other issues are factored in? The short answer: it’s complicated!
Let’s start with impaired judgment and impulsivity. Under the influence of alcohol, people tend to say and do things they normally wouldn’t while sober. This tendency is often referred to as alcohol’s disinhibiting effect. Here’s an example of how alcohol transforms typical behavior into something entirely different.
A couple is having a quiet evening at home while sharing a bottle of wine. During the evening, an argument starts over something inconsequential. Usually, this isn’t a huge issue; neither person blows up when sober. However, with three drinks down, the couple’s argument quickly transforms into a shouting match, name-calling, and some pushing and shoving. Slower reactions, impaired judgment, and impulsivity due to their drinking eventually lead to kicking and punching and cuts and bruises.
For some, the above scenario may be a one-off. Still, for many others, it can become a cyclical pattern, especially if one or both people are struggling with alcohol abuse or dependence. Without intervention, a destructive pattern of drinking and domestic violence often continues.
The research we’ve talked about paints a concerning picture. So can alcohol make you violent? And are alcoholics abusive? Dispelling misconceptions about domestic violence is a pivotal step toward creating a safer environment for those of us affected by it.
Two misconceptions are that all alcoholics are abusive or that all people are abusive when drunk. Neither is true, nor is the suggestion that all abusers are alcoholics. The link between alcohol and domestic violence is not exact. The reality is many people engage in domestic violence without drinking, while many alcoholics are never violent toward a partner.
The relationship between alcohol and abuse, especially when we try to account for the influence of personality and other factors, is a complex, many-layered puzzle. (Consider this blog just the basics; no single source can plumb the depths of such a multifaceted issue.)
While the most apparent signs of domestic violence are physical altercations, there are several nonphysical ways partners can exhibit abusive behaviors:
If you live in the U.S. and are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.
Luckily, there are resources available to overcome domestic violence.
Understanding the complex and diverse nature of abuse and taking proactive steps is the best way to foster healthier relationships. There are ways to move forward and step into a safe, happy life free from violence. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol is a highly effective way to see the situation in a new light and take stock of how to move forward.
There’s a common belief out there that showers help cure hangovers. But is this a myth? Find out in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app today!
In The Shipping News, author Annie Proulx describes a character dealing with hangover symptoms in the traditional way: “At least he could turn on the shower, stand beneath the hot needles, face thrust near the spray head, feeling the headache move back a little.”
But do showers help hangovers? Why do showers make you feel better after you’ve had a few too many? And is there a difference between a cold or hot shower for hangover relief? Let’s explore this common hangover “cure” in more detail.
What is a hangover exactly? It comes down to our body’s reaction to alcohol metabolism. When we drink, alcohol has an effect on pretty much every system in our body. You can read more detail in our article about the health effects of alcohol, but let’s look at a brief overview.
All of this happens shortly after that first sip. As the alcohol enters our system, these changes continue to develop and can lead to a potential hangover down the line. The most common hangover symptoms we all know (and dread) — dehydration, nausea, headaches, fatigue, and overall malaise — are caused by a number of factors. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, there are a few key factors that contribute to hangovers.
Hangovers are super common. According to the Cleveland Clinic, one study showed that a whopping 75% of people who drink too much on a given night end up hungover the following morning. What about the lucky 25% who skate by without one? The researchers concluded they might be naturally resistant.
Because they’re so common, hangovers are also the subject of many myths — especially when it comes to curing them.
While a shower might not “cure” a hangover, it certainly won’t hurt — and might actually help! Here’s how:
So, if taking a shower can indeed ease some hangover symptoms, are certain temperatures more effective than others? For example, do cold showers help hangovers the most? And do hot showers help with headaches in particular?
The cold vs. hot debate mostly comes down to personal preference, but there’s some scientific evidence for both. Let’s explore it in more detail!
When we think of showers as a hangover remedy, we often think of cold ones.
Use caution: cold water increases the risk of hypothermia. This hangover remedy is definitely not for everyone! Listen to your body, and get out when you start to feel too cold.
Even if it helps a little, a shower by itself — hot or cold — won’t cure a hangover. Here are some proven ways to ease hangover symptoms:
Armed with these tips, you can get through a hangover a bit more comfortably. While they’re not an instant fix, they can take the edge off the discomfort (especially as the hangover peaks).
Finally, here are some tips for avoiding hangovers in the first place.
By following these and practicing mindful drinking, we can avoid the not-so-fun aftermath of a night of heavy drinking.
All in all, it’s important to remember that a hangover is temporary. After it passes, try to consider it a learning experience. Don’t judge yourself (it happens to many of us!), but see it as an opportunity to reassess your relationship with alcohol. If you’re curious about what life with less alcohol would be like, consider trying a month-long challenge, such as Dry January or Sober October. That said, there’s absolutely no need to wait until then — it’s never the “wrong” time to be sober-curious, and Reframe is here to cheer you on along the way!
In The Shipping News, author Annie Proulx describes a character dealing with hangover symptoms in the traditional way: “At least he could turn on the shower, stand beneath the hot needles, face thrust near the spray head, feeling the headache move back a little.”
But do showers help hangovers? Why do showers make you feel better after you’ve had a few too many? And is there a difference between a cold or hot shower for hangover relief? Let’s explore this common hangover “cure” in more detail.
What is a hangover exactly? It comes down to our body’s reaction to alcohol metabolism. When we drink, alcohol has an effect on pretty much every system in our body. You can read more detail in our article about the health effects of alcohol, but let’s look at a brief overview.
All of this happens shortly after that first sip. As the alcohol enters our system, these changes continue to develop and can lead to a potential hangover down the line. The most common hangover symptoms we all know (and dread) — dehydration, nausea, headaches, fatigue, and overall malaise — are caused by a number of factors. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, there are a few key factors that contribute to hangovers.
Hangovers are super common. According to the Cleveland Clinic, one study showed that a whopping 75% of people who drink too much on a given night end up hungover the following morning. What about the lucky 25% who skate by without one? The researchers concluded they might be naturally resistant.
Because they’re so common, hangovers are also the subject of many myths — especially when it comes to curing them.
While a shower might not “cure” a hangover, it certainly won’t hurt — and might actually help! Here’s how:
So, if taking a shower can indeed ease some hangover symptoms, are certain temperatures more effective than others? For example, do cold showers help hangovers the most? And do hot showers help with headaches in particular?
The cold vs. hot debate mostly comes down to personal preference, but there’s some scientific evidence for both. Let’s explore it in more detail!
When we think of showers as a hangover remedy, we often think of cold ones.
Use caution: cold water increases the risk of hypothermia. This hangover remedy is definitely not for everyone! Listen to your body, and get out when you start to feel too cold.
Even if it helps a little, a shower by itself — hot or cold — won’t cure a hangover. Here are some proven ways to ease hangover symptoms:
Armed with these tips, you can get through a hangover a bit more comfortably. While they’re not an instant fix, they can take the edge off the discomfort (especially as the hangover peaks).
Finally, here are some tips for avoiding hangovers in the first place.
By following these and practicing mindful drinking, we can avoid the not-so-fun aftermath of a night of heavy drinking.
All in all, it’s important to remember that a hangover is temporary. After it passes, try to consider it a learning experience. Don’t judge yourself (it happens to many of us!), but see it as an opportunity to reassess your relationship with alcohol. If you’re curious about what life with less alcohol would be like, consider trying a month-long challenge, such as Dry January or Sober October. That said, there’s absolutely no need to wait until then — it’s never the “wrong” time to be sober-curious, and Reframe is here to cheer you on along the way!
