When it comes to addiction, early intervention is important, as it can help prevent further issues for the individual. In this blog, we’re looking into high-functioning alcoholism and 10 signs you shouldn’t ignore.
What is high-functioning alcoholism?
‘High-functioning alcoholism’ is an informal term often used to describe people who meet the criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) while continuing to maintain work, family responsibilities and other aspects of daily life.
Although some people maintain careers, relationships and daily responsibilities, others may experience more visible difficulties with work, finances, physical health or personal relationships.
In many cases, people with high-functioning alcohol problems can continue working, maintaining relationships and caring for their families. As a result, their alcohol use may go unnoticed for longer.
“When you are managing to maintain an alcohol problem whilst holding down all your responsibilities, it becomes exhausting, and for the individual it is like living a double life; this is only sustainable for a period of time before you inevitably burn out.” – Adrian Guffogg, Director at Acquiesce Rehab
Identifying the symptoms and signs of a functioning alcoholic
There are some signs you can look out for when it comes to functional alcoholism, although the list is not limited to these.
- Drinking frequently, even in small amounts
- Drinking to cope with stress – a ‘coping mechanism’
- Consuming large amounts of alcohol without exhibiting obvious signs of intoxication
- Drinking alone
- Denial of heavy drinking
- Prioritising drinking over other activities
How does functional alcoholism develop?
Alcohol addiction can begin for many reasons. Trauma can contribute to alcohol misuse for some individuals, but alcohol addiction usually develops through a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.
Trauma may include adverse childhood experiences or significant life events. However, not everyone who develops alcohol problems has experienced trauma, and many factors can contribute to addiction.
If someone is struggling with alcohol misuse, approaching them without judgement and creating a safe environment for conversation can encourage them to seek support. Read more about alcohol rehabilitation.
10 hidden signs of a high-functioning alcoholic
- Starting the day with alcohol
- Going to work with a hangover
- Functioning alcoholics may partake in secretive drinking
- Pre-drinking excessively
- Setting limits and exceeding them
- Experiencing blackouts and memory issues
- Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect
- Being defensive about drinking habits
- Regularly minimising or rationalising drinking habits
- Binge drinking
Experiencing one or two of these signs does not necessarily mean someone has Alcohol Use Disorder. However, if several of these behaviours are present, it may be worth seeking professional advice.
How does alcohol impact other areas of life?
Alcoholism can have significant impacts on many areas of life, from health and friendships to work and relationships.
Highly stressful work situations can contribute to increased alcohol consumption for some individuals, particularly if alcohol is being used as a way to cope with stress. Some people may recognise that their drinking is becoming problematic but find it difficult to reduce or stop without support.
In many cases, while the individual drinking heavily can see that their work is being affected, they may not recognise the severity. They may be unwilling to recognise the impact of alcohol.
Friendships and relationships can also be affected. These effects often show up when one person drinks more than another. While both people want to drink, their reasons for doing so are different, and this can often lead to conflict.
Factors associated with an increased risk of alcohol problems include family history, mental health difficulties, trauma, chronic stress, social environment and certain personality traits.
What are the dangers of alcohol misuse?
Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can affect nearly every organ in the body and increase the risk of physical, psychological and social harms.
Long-term alcohol misuse is associated with an increased risk of:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Injuries
- Arrest
- Sexual dysfunction
- Accidents
- Drugs/other substance abuse
Is anyone at a higher risk of developing an addiction?
Certain factors may increase a person’s risk of developing alcohol-related problems, including chronic stress, high-pressure work environments, mental health difficulties and a family history of addiction.
Other risk factors can include people who have an undiagnosed mental health disorder. They may turn to alcohol as a way of coping with increased anxiety, depression or another condition. This can be their coping strategy, which can become dangerous.
Carers can be at a higher risk of alcoholism as they often become overwhelmed and search for ways to relieve this. While they are busy looking after others, they can often forget to check in on their own mental and physical well-being.
Perfectionists may be at increased risk, as they often hold themselves to high standards, which can cause stress. These individuals may use alcohol as a temporary way to cope with stress or emotional pressure, which can reinforce drinking habits over time. This can lead to a variety of issues with relationships and mental and physical health. Read more about the impact of alcohol on relationships.
Why does excessive drinking often go unnoticed?
People with high-functioning alcohol problems may conceal or minimise their drinking, making it difficult for others to recognise the extent of the issue. Most of the time, their symptoms are hidden by their success in life. It’s important to note that they may still experience negative side effects from drinking, but these may not be obvious to the outside world.
- They may conceal or minimise the extent of their drinking
- They are perfectionists and high performers
- They may continue to perform well at work or fulfil responsibilities despite problematic drinking
- They look after themselves despite high alcohol consumption
Effective alcohol addiction treatment options
Alcohol use disorder is challenging to go through, but the good news is that you don’t have to get through it alone. Acquiesce Rehab Centre in Bolton is a residential facility where you can gain the knowledge and skills to live a healthier lifestyle.
We support all clients with a holistic, personalised treatment plan for alcohol addiction. Our goal is to help you identify the root causes of your addiction and develop the skills and strategies you need to maintain sobriety long-term.
People who are physically dependent on alcohol should seek medical advice before stopping suddenly, as alcohol withdrawal can sometimes be severe and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Please speak to a professional about removing alcohol from your body in a safe and controlled way. Following treatment, you may like to attend support groups or continue talking with licensed medical professionals regarding your relationship with alcohol.
If you need support with alcohol dependence for yourself or a loved one, please contact our admissions team today, who will be more than happy to help. We have been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC for two consecutive inspections.
