Author: John Carter

How to Recognize a Functional Alcoholic

Support from other people who struggle with alcohol use disorder is an integral part of recovery, alongside medical treatment. These therapies are available one-on-one or in small groups in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Some people with AUD may attend an inpatient recovery program, in which they stay at a facility for at least 28 days to receive concentrated treatment in a controlled environment. One sign that someone may have alcohol use disorder is that they consume excessive amounts of alcohol. This can look like binge drinking (drinking a lot over a short period) or heavy drinking (drinking a lot over a more extended period). Below are some signs that you or someone you love may be living with alcohol use disorder.

I’m Seeking Help

High-functioning alcoholics (HFAs) defy these stereotypes and often go undetected because they do not fit the image of the “typical” alcoholic. 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.

Other signs of a functioning alcoholic can include some of the following:

While the term “alcoholic” was used in the past but is now viewed as outdated and stigmatizing. Today, healthcare professionals would say that a person has an alcohol use disorder (AUD). According to the NIH, a functional alcoholic is generally a person who is a well-educated, middle-aged adult with a stable family and career. It can lead to liver disease, pancreatitis, some forms of cancer, brain damage, serious memory loss, and high blood pressure. It also makes someone more likely to die in a car wreck or from murder or suicide. And any alcohol abuse raises the odds of domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and fetal alcohol syndrome.

1. These therapies are available one-on-one or in small groups in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
2. It also makes someone more likely to die in a car wreck or from murder or suicide.
3. Many are not viewed by society as being alcoholic, because they have functioned, succeeded and/or over-achieved throughout their lifetimes.
4. High-functioning alcoholics (HFAs) defy these stereotypes and often go undetected because they do not fit the image of the “typical” alcoholic.
5. A diagnosis often brings relief, but it can also come with as many questions as answers.

Support Your Recovery

Outpatient treatment might be a good option for high functioning alcoholics because they seem to be in control of their life enough to continue working while in recovery. High functioning alcoholics and relationships can be problematic, especially if one person is sober. Alcoholism can put a strain on a marriage and regular drinking leads to a breakdown in communication. My understanding of HFAs is also from a personal perspective—I have been in recovery from alcoholism for almost five years.

They may seem physically healthy, be able to balance family matters and friendships, and even excel in their careers. Regular alcohol use, even when it teeters on abuse, is a socially accepted part of American life. Sarah Allen Benton, M.S., LMHC., LPC, is a licensed mental health counselor and author of Understanding the High-Functioning Alcoholic.

What Does it Mean to be a High Functioning or Functional Alcoholic?

Drinking alcohol at unconventional times—such as early in the day or at gatherings where nobody else is drinking—is another hallmark of this disease. 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 Tell If You or a Loved One Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic

These achievements often lead to an increase in personal denial as well as denial from colleagues and loved ones. But they may put themselves or others in danger by drinking and driving, having risky sexual encounters, or blacking out, Benton says. Issues with work, school, and relationships are common among people living with AUD.

When Should You Seek Help?

Chronic alcohol abuse takes a heavy toll on the body, leading to all sorts of health issues. It also disrupts a person’s brain chemistry, making them more susceptible to mental health issues. Apart from regular, excessive alcohol consumption, there are other factors that can put a person at risk of becoming a functional alcoholic.

HFAs have the same disease as the stereotypical “skid-row” alcoholic, but it manifests or progresses differently. Express an openness to talk about their drinking, provide support and establish boundaries. Make it clear to him that you will not support their drinking or unhealthy behaviors, and you will not share in the consequences. Then detach with love and utilize all of your support networks. For anyone who’s concerned about a loved one’s drinking, please find a community of support like Al-Anon.

A diagnosis often brings relief, but it can also come with as many questions as answers. The incredibly important first step is to recognize your need for help and move past denial. Drinking rarely causes them to miss work and other obligations (although it does happen occasionally). They are usually able to manage areas of life including jobs, homes, and families.