Contrary to what you might think, alcoholics, don’t always look worse for wear. Some of them look normal on the surface. They keep their addiction a secret and believe they have it under control. These people are examples of high-functioning alcoholics. At Fresh Start Recovery Center, individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder can find alcohol addiction treatment needed to heal and overcome addiction.
What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?
You must have met a high-functioning alcoholic at least once. And you probably didn’t realize it. Although they may show all the signs of being an alcoholic, these people can maintain a seemingly healthy life. They appear to be in good health and have excellent careers.
As such, they never have to worry that they may get fired due to a hangover. Unlike many alcoholics who experience failed relationships, high-functioning alcoholics are better able to maintain relationships with friends and loved ones. Normally, alcohol abuse doesn’t show until they are old and grey when it has taken its toll on their bodies.
Also known as functional alcoholics, these people do not drink much during the day. They drink moderately, just enough to keep their cravings under control. With that, they can also stop the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol use.
In some cases, high-functioning alcoholics simply don’t drink during the day. Instead, they drown themselves in alcohol at night or on weekends. This way, they can keep their alcoholism secret from everyone.
It might not look like it is a problem, but functional alcoholics are alcoholics just the same. They have an addiction that makes them drink compulsively even when they realize its negative consequences.
Signs that You are a High Functioning Alcoholic
Unlike others struggling with alcohol abuse, it is sometimes difficult to recognize a functional alcoholic. It’s because they keep the problem a secret and live in denial that they have a problem. The unwillingness to accept or admit they need help means only the closest people to them can tell the signs. If you suspect you or your loved one may be a high-functioning alcoholic, there are various signs to look for, including:
- Drinking for relaxation
- Using alcohol to feel confident
- Drinks too much alcohol when alone
- Blacks out when drinking
- Drinks in the morning though moderately
- Misses work or school for unexplained reasons
Functional alcoholics also joke about drinking often as a way to validate their habit. What’s worse, they are more likely to participate in troubling behaviors but are proficient in not getting caught. An example of the high-risk behavior they may take part in is driving while intoxicated.
They may become careless and drive while intoxicated while accompanied by children, or participate in sexual acts while drunk. Binge drinking is a high risk not only because of these behaviors but also due to its substantial negative impact on your health.
What are the Causes of High Functioning Alcoholism?
Alcoholism has different effects on people. Some people develop alcohol use disorder quickly. Sometimes this is because of genetic reasons or because of the stress of running a business. Others take time before it becomes apparent that they are alcoholics. Those who show signs of alcoholism are likely teens who started drinking when their brain was still developing.
On the other hand, functioning alcoholics are quite possibly people who acquired the habit during their later years. Causes of becoming a high-functioning alcoholics likely include genetics and some environmental factors. Other factors that may contribute to alcoholism include:
- Home circumstance
- Stress, anxiety or depression
- Family history of alcoholism
- Peer pressure
- Relationships with family and friends
- Cultural or religious views
Taking note of these risk factors is essential in creating the right plan to recover from alcoholism.
How Fresh Start Recovery Center Can Help
Sooner or later, a high-functioning alcoholic will break down. Even though it doesn’t look severe, alcoholism is a problem that can negatively affect a person’s body and mind. You must intervene quickly to help a high-functioning alcoholic get back to living a healthy and quality life. Contact us today at 833.625.0398 to get started on the path to recovery.
