How Sober Girls Deal with Anger

Feeling angry or irritable after stopping drinking is a common symptom that occurs as your body and brain adjust to functioning without alcohol. It can be quite a shock to our system both mentally and physically because drinking has been a coping mechanism. Here are some possible reasons for this anger and actions you can take to make yourself feel better in no time.

1. Chemical Imbalance:

Alcohol affects the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood. When you stop drinking, your brain needs time to recalibrate, which can lead to heightened irritability or anger.

2. Stress Response

Alcohol suppresses the stress response system. When you quit, the system becomes overactive, making you more sensitive to stress and frustration.

3. Unprocessed Emotions

Many people use alcohol to cope with emotions. When you stop drinking, underlying feelings of anger, frustration, or sadness may resurface without a coping mechanism in place.

4. Withdrawal Symptoms

Anger can be part of alcohol withdrawal, especially in the first week or two. Other symptoms, such as anxiety, restlessness, and mood swings, can amplify your irritability.

5. Lifestyle Changes

Quitting alcohol often involves significant lifestyle shifts, such as changes in social dynamics or routines, which can be frustrating or unsettling.

How to Feel Better:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that anger is a normal part of life and the process. Anger is not good or bad, wrong or right. It is just a feeling that comes and goes. It is not personal.

Exercise: Physical activity can help release tension and boost mood.

Practice Stress Management: Techniques like deep breathing, guided meditation, or journaling can help.

Talk to Someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, and like-minded women in the Sober Girl Social Club. Here you have support right at your fingertips with live Support Circles led by certified coaches, worksheets and exercises, and a supportive group of women to keep you accountable.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Dehydration and poor nutrition can worsen mood swings. The 7-Day Sober Girl Meal Plan is packed with easy and delicious meals to keep you nourished.

Professional Help: If anger feels unmanageable, seeking support from our coaches can make a big difference. Every one of our coaches has been in your position and overcame the stress and hardships sobriety brings. Learn from the best.

Give yourself time to adjust. This is a major change for your nervous system and how you normally deal with stress. It is perfectly natural to feel a wide range of emotions.