When we talk about alcoholism, the picture it paints in our mind is of a dishevelled person frequenting a bar or pub, smelling like alcohol, unable to become a regular part of society. However, people with (high) functioning alcoholism can often look completely different. These are people who drink often and rely on alcohol but still are operational in society.
While still seemingly a functioning part of society, able to maintain relationships and a job, functioning alcoholism is a slippery slope for anyone. It can take a turn for the worse and put the person and their life in danger.
What is Functioning Alcoholism?
On the outside, someone with functioning alcoholism may look like they have a great life. They may be doing well career-wise, and have seemingly thriving interpersonal relationships. But beyond these appearances can be a person struggling with depression, anxiety, or other concerns they’re attempting to mask with alcohol consumption.
It’s also possible their career and relationships aren’t doing as well as it may seem.
How to Identify Functioning Alcoholism
Undoubtedly, it’s important to be able to recognize the signs of someone struggling with functioning alcoholism so that it is easy to spot if you or someone you love needs help.
Here are some signs to look out for someone with functioning alcoholism:
- They are a very frequent drinker
- Blacking out or “losing control” may be a common occurrence
- Drinking for long periods alone
- Being ashamed of their alcohol consumption
- Hints of deteriorating mental health
- Because of their drinking issues, they are unable to fulfil personal commitments.
- Withdrawal symptoms may turn up when they haven’t been able to drink in a while.
Dangers of High Functioning Alcoholism and Why Treatment is Important
While functioning alcoholism may seem harmless on the surface, it actually comes with many dangers, and people fighting it do indeed need help.
According to rehabilitation specialists, “drinking has a severe impact on the health of your liver, kidneys, and organs. While most are familiar with the intoxicating effects of alcohol, it can also cause rapid weight gain, changes in the condition of your skin, and a lack of energy.” Other health concerns may include high blood pressure, liver complications, a weak immune system, heat-related issues, etc.
While this covers the physical dangers someone dependent on alcohol may encounter, the following are some social and emotional reasons why people with a drinking problem may need help:
- Deteriorating relationships with family and friends
- Financial trouble
- Problems at work may include lack of attention, poor performance, behaviour issues, etc.
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Angry outbursts or shame when confronted about drinking
What Does the Road to Recovery Look Like?
The good news is that we can always reclaim our lives from the clutches of alcohol dependency and start on the road to recovery.
According to substancerehabilitation.com – a UK leading addiction resource – getting help with alcohol addiction “can help you feel better. Alcohol is a depressant and contributes to intensified feelings of depression, anxiety, and inner turmoil. By pursuing treatment, you can stop the cycle of alcohol abuse and its psychological influences.”
Here are some easy steps to follow to make your recovery less hectic.
Step 1
Recognize and admit there is a problem and you want to overcome it. The sooner you realize you need help as a struggling alcoholic, the better it is and easy to beat.
Step 2
Set a list of goals or objectives you want to accomplish, what you want to change about your life, and so on.
Step 3
Look for a suitable rehab or recovery centre. They provide facilities like support groups, personalized plans, helpful exercises, special programs, and a very calm environment that can make all the difference, and give you a promising start to your recovery.
Professional treatment may include:
- Therapy
Counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy provide you with strategies to avoid relapse by assisting you in identifying and changing negative thought patterns that might be at the root of your addiction.
- Medication
To aid with alcoholic withdrawal effects and cravings, medication may be prescribed. These drugs can help you have a healthier and safer withdrawal while also lowering your risks of relapsing.
- Support groups
Support groups can bring together people and help them find a common ground and let them know that they’re not alone.
Step 4
Seek out healthier alternatives and coping methods. This can include finding a new hobby or joining meditation/yoga classes to help you find emotional regulation and inner fulfilment.
Summary
People struggling with alcohol addiction go through their fair share of struggles therefore we need to recognize and get help for them.
#1 While functioning alcoholism may not look too bad, it is likely to become worse.
#2 Functioning alcoholism can be dangerous physically, socially, and mentally.
#3 Admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery.
#4 Although the journey to recovery might look stressful, if you choose the right resources, you can overcome it.
#5 It is important to find healthy alternatives and coping methods.
While battling high functioning alcoholism is difficult, overcoming it is very possible.
