High functioning alcoholic: Signs, risks, and more
According to the NIAAA, the majority of people with an AUD can benefit from some form of treatment. In addition to the health effects of having an alcohol use disorder, it can also take a toll on relationships. Drinking doesn’t just affect the individual; it affects the entire family unit. However, they are likely struggling with uncontrollable cravings, unsuccessful attempts at quitting, and obsessive thoughts about their next drink—all hallmarks of an alcohol use disorder.
How to Treat High-Functioning Alcoholism
- They also tend to avoid legal and social repercussions of drinking, at least for a while.
- The most in-depth care allows you to live full time at a treatment facility.
- For example, a computed tomography (CT) scan tests for liver enlargement, which can occur after years of chronic drinking.
- Our treatment facility is accredited by the Joint Commission and LegitScript Certified.
Consider having an open and honest discussion with your loved one about their alcohol use and encourage them to discuss it with a counselor or their primary care doctor. When they know other people are going to be around, high-functioning alcoholics may sneak a drink early, drink before going out to the bar or club, or drink alone. This hidden drinking and secretive lifestyle is a huge red flag when it comes to alcoholism and shouldn’t be ignored. If you or someone you know shows signs of high-functioning alcoholism, it’s essential to seek professional help . Recovery is possible through therapy, rehab programs, and support groups. Taking proactive steps can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Signs You’re a High Functioning Alcoholic
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. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 95,000 people lose their lives every year due to excessive alcohol use. If you are concerned about your loved one’s drinking, it can be helpful to join a support group such as Al-Anon.
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McFadden claimed that since undergoing treatment, she no longer has feelings of ‘discontent’ and is instead ‘joyous, happy and free’. McFadden went on to say that people can become ‘wildly uncomfortable’ and may experience feelings such as not wanting to leave the house and overwhelming sadness. According to the social media star and health practitioner, she managed 11 months of abstaining from alcohol before she was forced to seek out a community like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). As with anyone who’s struggling with an alcohol dependency, acceptance is an initial but significant step. From here, there are many things you can do to help get you on a path to recovery.
- This is true for day drinkers and those who drink alcohol throughout the day.
- A high-functioning alcoholic is someone who suffers from alcohol dependency or addiction but can still maintain their daily responsibilities.
The signs and symptoms listed above should be a good indicator of high-functioning alcoholism. They might also isolate themselves from other people to spend time drinking alone. 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) allow people to change their relationship with alcohol, discuss concerns with others and confront functional alcoholic husband the behaviours that drive addiction. McFadden – a self-confessed former ‘dry alcoholic’ – claimed that when she stopped drinking, she started exhibiting some seriously negative traits. It’s well-documented that it’s difficult for alcoholics to admit they have a problem, never mind start seeking out professional help.
- This is often what’s best for someone with a more severe or long-term alcohol use disorder or a co-occurring mental health disorder.
- This pattern is often repeated, and you may notice that they go through periods where they drink heavily and then make an attempt to quit.
- ‘High-functioning alcoholics’, or ‘functioning alcoholic’, are colloquial terms for someone who’s dependent on alcohol but is still able to function relatively effectively in their daily life.
Be honest about how much you’re drinking and what symptoms you’re experiencing. “For people with alcohol use disorder, it is not possible to drink moderately. And yet alcoholism—more accurately called “alcohol use disorder”—falls along a spectrum that ranges from mild to severe.
What Are the Signs?
A high-functioning alcoholic’s behavior may change significantly while drinking. For example, a usually calm person may become outgoing, aggressive or even impulsive while consuming alcohol. There are many misconceptions about alcoholism that make it sound like an alcoholic is an easy person to spot, however, many alcoholics function effectively and lead relatively normal lives. An HFA is an alcoholic who is able to maintain his or her outside life, such as a job, home, family, and friendships, all while drinking alcoholically.
Alcohol Abuse & Addiction
While their appearance may not be any different and they can still fulfill their responsibilities, you’ll start to see a pattern develop of turning to alcohol to cope with family, work or personal issues. To learn more about addiction treatment and recovery resources, please contact a Recovery Advocate at The Recovery Village Atlanta Drug and Alcohol Rehab today. It is important to note that these signs may not be obvious to a loved one or friend. This is because people can be skillful at hiding the signs of an issue with alcohol. Due to some people’s ability to mask their AUD, it is difficult to find research on those that are high functioning.
There’s no shame in accepting you need treatment for alcohol addiction. Treatments, like those listed below, can help you to overcome your dependency on alcohol and put you on path to a healthy future. If you or a loved one is struggling, give us a call to learn more about our programs and how we can help. It’s crucial that people attending outpatient treatment have a stable home/residential environment supportive of their efforts and can be alcohol-free during this period.
Impact of Being a Functional Alcoholic
In addition, since the impact of AUD may not be as obvious, the person may be unable to recognize the severity of their condition in these early stages. People who are close to a person with AUD may need support to understand how to help their loved ones. However, a doctor should recommend the best type of treatment for each person since the severity and presentation can vary from person to person. For some people, AUD may also mean more than physical dependence, but a stress reliever or source of psychological escape.