The Reality Behind a Functioning Alcoholic
Alcohol Use Disorder affects millions of people in the United States of America. It can affect people from all walks of life, all demographics, and financial status. When someone is suffering from alcohol use disorder, they may be unable to see the way it is affecting their life. In many cases, a person may become very good at hiding their alcohol consumption from friends and family. Having a dependence or addiction to alcohol does not necessarily mean that a person’s life will be in shambles. Many people live full lives, hold down prestigious jobs, and have happy home lives while continuing an unhealthy relationship with alcohol or drugs.
Termed, high-functioning alcoholics, as noted by Healthline these people are often “well-educated, held down jobs, and had families.” According to their article “A high-functioning alcoholic is a person who is able to maintain what appears from the outside a successful, normal life.” Unfortunately, high-functioning alcoholics may be less likely to be aware of their condition and less likely to seek treatment. Healthline suggests looking at whether you or a loved one you suspect may be a functioning alcoholic using alcohol as a reward or uses alcohol to relieve stress. In some cases, they may choose alcohol consumption instead of eating and will often conceal how much alcohol they are consuming.
It is important to seek treatment as early as possible for alcohol use disorder. Even mild forms of the disorder can have lifelong health consequences. It can be extremely difficult for a high-functioning alcoholic to recognize that there is a problem and that they need help, making it more difficult for family to provide the support they need. Professional alcohol treatment may be the only way to get yourself, or your loved one, the help they need to achieve sobriety.