It is important to know that an AUD is a chronic but treatable disease. Early intervention and treatment can help reduce the severity of the disease and prevent further physical or mental complications from developing. More recently, a 2020 study found that people who used alcohol to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to drink alone and drink to excessive amounts. Researchers cited further risk factors, such as having a child under 18 and at home, having depression, and having fewer social interactions due to the pandemic. Peer pressure and easy availability of alcohol can increase the risk of developing an AUD.
- Over time, you may struggle to maintain social and familial obligations and relationships.
- The distinction between high-functioning and non-high-functioning alcoholism largely comes down to how each individual manages daily tasks and responsibilities.
- Some suffer blackouts and miss blocks of time during their day as a result.
- There are also subtypes of alcoholism, one of which is functional alcoholism.
- Encourage them to attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), SMART Recovery, or other support groups.
- If you recognize signs of alcoholism in yourself, you should seek help from medical professionals such as a psychiatrist, primary care doctor or therapist.
- When you have an alcohol use disorder, it causes impairment and distress.
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- If they show up late to work or miss an event because of drinking, avoid making excuses for them.
- An addiction therapist can help you find positive ways to deal with the stress of living with a functional alcoholic.
- However, there are key behaviors to look for that can help you identify when someone may be struggling with alcohol dependency.
Many people who suffer from alcohol use disorder struggle to acknowledge they’ve developed a dependence on the substance. Unlike some sufferers, whose lives have been severely damaged due to alcohol, high functioning alcoholics may not be able to see significant consequences for their drinking. Moreover, the illusion of control can make it more difficult for friends, family members and colleagues to recognize a problem. High-functioning alcoholism presents a unique challenge, as individuals may appear outwardly successful while struggling with alcohol dependency behind closed doors. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of high-functioning alcoholism is crucial for early intervention and treatment.
Characteristics of High-Functioning Alcoholics
People with high-functioning alcoholism can only keep up the facade for so long. Their symptoms can gradually worsen over time, eventually impacting both their personal and professional life. Depending on the situation’s specifics and your concern, you could also work with a professional addiction treatment center or interventionist to arrange an intervention. During an intervention, loved ones come together to share how someone’s drinking is affecting them and show their support if the person decides to get help. Many resources are available, whether you want to help yourself or someone you care about. For some people, as mentioned, the first alcohol rehab resource could be speaking to their primary care provider, who can help them understand the next steps.
The Signs of a High-Functioning Alcoholic
Increased tolerance and dependency often mean that drinking will spiral out of control eventually, leading to severe consequences like job loss or legal trouble. Some high-functioning alcoholics believe that alcohol helps them perform better. They might feel that it relaxes them enough to socialize effectively, fuels their creativity, or helps them “manage” the pressure of work or life.
Tolerance
Alcohol addiction can have a devastating effect on someone’s life, but how long it takes someone’s drinking problem to affect their daily functioning will differ from person to person. High-functioning alcoholics will do what they can to drink while appearing sober. They’ll binge drink on weekends to ensure they have no obligations the following day. High-functioning alcoholism is defined by the alcohol’s ability to work or function normally. These people appear successful and healthy despite a possible underlying alcohol use disorder. The earlier a person begins drinking, the more likely they are to develop an alcohol addiction.
Even though they may manage to perform in their daily life, their alcohol dependency can lead to long-term physical and emotional harm if left unaddressed. The biggest challenge is that their drinking often stays hidden, making it harder for others—and even for themselves—to recognize the problem. Seeking professional treatment for alcohol addiction is a crucial step towards recovery.
- High-functioning alcoholics, while seemingly maintaining their daily life, often struggle to fulfill responsibilities due to their alcohol consumption.
- As time goes on and tolerance increases, they may attempt to hide the growing problem, and a growing number of empty bottles or cans, from friends and family.
- Many high-functioning alcoholics might benefit from programs specifically designed for busy professionals.
These individuals might hold down steady jobs or even excel in their professions and be respected members of their communities. However, behind this facade of success lies a hidden struggle with alcohol abuse, which they may go to great lengths to conceal. Acknowledging this sign of high-functioning alcoholism is crucial for early intervention and treatment, which can help break the cycle of isolation and addiction. High-functioning alcoholism can significantly impact high functioning alcoholic an individual’s academic and professional life. Despite their ability to maintain outward appearances of success, the consistent consumption of alcohol can lead to decreased motivation and poorer performance.
Alcohol Use Disorder
For example, a family history of alcoholism or a stressful environment. Our state-specific resource guides offer a comprehensive overview of drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in your area. In addition to the health effects of having an alcohol use disorder, it can also take a toll on relationships.