Characteristics of High-Functioning Alcoholics

With functioning alcoholism, the drinking frequently escalates, and the eventual deterioration in home life, working life, and overall well-being are inevitable. Certain factors may increase your risk of developing an alcohol problem. Binge drinking, social pressures, family history, mental health issues, and excess alcohol use can all increase your risk of developing an alcohol use disorder. If you feel that you sometimes drink too much alcohol, or your drinking is causing problems, or if your family is concerned about your drinking, talk with your health care provider. Other ways to get help include talking with a mental health professional or seeking help from a support group such as Alcoholics Anonymous or a similar type of self-help group.

Interestingly, while this group drinks less often than other alcoholics, they tend to “binge drink” more often and consume more alcohol during those binges. For example, on “binge days,” members of this group often consume up to 14 drinks. Although the average age of this group is 24, most have spent at least the last four years as an alcoholic. Outpatient treatment programs are usually the best course of treatment for a high-functioning alcoholic, likely supplemented by an initial period of medical detox. But if they continue down this path without seeking professional help, their performance and health will gradually deteriorate as profound alcohol dependence develops.

It’s important to approach the situation with understanding and encourage seeking professional help for a healthier path forward. Recognizing a functional alcoholic isn’t always straightforward; it’s about peering through the veneer of normalcy to understand the struggle that lies beneath. As society continues to deal with the widespread issue of alcohol dependence, shedding light on this particular aspect is crucial. It’s not just about identifying the problem; it’s about having a deeper understanding and compassion towards those who navigate this challenging path, often in silence.

The NIAAA Study and Their Definition of the 5 Types of Alcoholics

While everyone may experience this progression differently, there are four common stages people go through when becoming a functional alcoholic. While the appearance of their drinking may seem functional, there might be hidden consequences as a result of their alcohol use disorder. Although some well-known signs of addiction may not be present, for example a DUI or a lost job, those outcomes may yet happen. And there are other less obvious warning signals you can look for that indicate an alcohol use disorder. According to research sponsored by the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence (NCADD), approximately 14 million American adults—or one out of every 13—suffer from an alcohol use disorder. While the term «alcoholic» was used in the past but is now viewed as outdated and stigmatizing.

Not the first time

The term “functional alcoholic” is one that is generally seen as outdated. It’s important to remember that functional alcoholism can be just as harmful in the long term as more severe forms of alcohol addiction. Seeking help and support early can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life, free from the negative impacts of alcohol misuse. The term «functional alcoholic» is heavily debated in the addiction community, but it’s part of the social vernacular so it’s valuable to discuss the common misconceptions. Just because someone with an alcohol use disorder (the medical term for an alcoholic) is functioning doesn’t mean they’re functioning well or functioning in each aspect of their lives. Keep that idea in mind while you approach the topic of alcohol abuse and addiction.

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1. Restraint and moderation, rather than agitational language and partisanship, are the hallmarks of the newspaper.
2. Whether through individual therapy, support groups, or a combination of these methods, there is hope for recovery and the opportunity to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life, free from the grip of alcohol misuse.
3. If a parent or member of an individual’s extended family had alcohol use disorder, it can increase the chances of developing the same issues.
4. These resources can be as close as their primary care physician’s office, a treatment facility, or peer support groups.

Early intervention can prevent or mitigate these consequences, leading to a healthier, more stable life. In reality, a high-functioning alcoholic may be experiencing a great deal of stress while they maintain their drinking and all the dressings of a socially accepted lifestyle. So the appearance of functioning may be carefully manufactured to keep their alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) unchecked and unaddressed.

Too often, the loved ones of a so-called high-functioning alcoholic end up as collateral damage, and that was the case with Diane Shuler. In this sad incident, her son and three powerless over alcohol nieces also lost their lives, casualties of a disorder that selects its victims mercilessly and without discrimination. Unfortunately, most functional alcoholics live in denial, too ashamed or too proud to admit the truth to themselves or others. The subdued emotional and sad-sounding Kamala told her supporters to safeguard their power. The video lacked a professional touch and showed her wearing a brown jacket, seated with a partial view of the US flag in the background with many calling her “functioning alcoholic”. Identifying and using tools and healthy outlets can be an important part of moving forward from alcohol use disorder.

Treatment for functional alcoholism will vary based on a person’s individual situation and needs. Those who fall into the category of a functional alcoholic appear on the surface to lead a regular life. Inpatient or residential treatment provides the individual with an environment where they can stay on-site for frequent monitoring and care. The first phase will consist of medical detox, which is an intensive part of the process that oversees their care while alcohol leaves their system.

Stage #1: Occasional Alcohol Use And Binge Drinking

Online therapy can be a convenient way to connect with a licensed therapist from the location of your choice. Navigating the world of alcoholism is complex, with many variations hidden beneath the surface. One such lesser-known yet widely prevalent form is functional alcoholism, a term that conjures images of individuals maintaining a seemingly normal life while struggling with alcohol dependence. Unlike the stereotypical portrayal of alcoholics, functional alcoholics often lead successful, outwardly stable lives, making it challenging for outsiders to recognize the signs. This duality casts a shadow not only on their health and well-being but also on their personal and professional relationships.