Peer pressure and easy availability of alcohol can increase the risk of developing an AUD. Negative life experiences, such as grief, abuse, or living in poverty, can also increase the odds. A functional alcoholic often consumes as much alcohol as someone with an alcohol use disorder. 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. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp. It passes slowly when times are tough and moves too quickly when life is smooth.

• Even if the signs are not immediately visible, the long-term consequences can be severe.
• A person who drinks excessively, whether or not they monitor it, is doing damage to their physical body.
• There are many rehab centers and support groups, both online and in-person, for people who are working to achieve sobriety.
• Some high-functioning alcoholics never binge drink and rarely become drunk.
• Since you only need to fulfill 2 or more of the DSM-5 criteria within the last year to be diagnosed with AUD, you might still be fully contributing to your home life, job, and other areas of your life.

A Choice for Meaningful Treatment with Dignity

A diagnosis is based on how many symptoms you experience over the past 12 months, with 11 total criteria. When people talk about alcoholism, they are actually referring to someone drug addiction who has an alcohol use disorder. Alcoholism is not an official diagnosis, but it is a commonly used term. There are also subtypes of alcoholism, one of which is functional alcoholism.

• Sadly, according to the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, only 25 percent of alcoholics ever receive treatment—indicating a serious problem of denial on a societal level.
• Alcohol use disorder can still have a significant impact on a person’s life, even if they appear to be coping from the outside.

My experience here at Silvermist was a lifesaving opportunity and blessing

Even if an individual appears to be managing their responsibilities, work performance can decline over time. Frequent absences, reduced productivity, and strained professional relationships are common issues. My understanding of HFAs is also from a personal perspective—I have been in recovery from alcoholism for almost five years. I, too, struggled to see that I could be accomplished academically and then professionally while drinking alcoholically. My image of the alcoholic was always an individual who could not hold his or her life together, and I certainly did not fit that description.

Signs of a Functional Alcoholic

During an intervention, loved ones come together to share how someone’s drinking is affecting them and show their support if the person decides to get help. The earlier an intervention is sought, the =https://ecosoberhouse.com/ better the outcomes for many people. Also, if you seek help for yourself or a loved one early on, outpatient rehab can be effective. On the other hand, waiting may require a more intensive level of care.

Treatment programs at The Recovery Village include a full spectrum of alcohol recovery services, from alcohol detox to rehab, aftercare and sober housing. When you’re ready to seek help, or if you have questions about how to live with an alcoholic, we’re here for you.Contact ustoday to learn more about our treatment options. When you’re living with a high-functioning alcoholic, your own health is at stake as well as the welfare of your loved one. By getting help for your loved one, you may be able to avoid further consequences high functioning alcoholic of alcoholism and build a healthier future for your family. The participants in an intervention could include the alcoholic’s spouse or partner, children, parents, friends, coworkers, employer, friends and other individuals who have been affected. A substance abuse counselor, family therapist or spiritual advisor may also attend to provide an objective presence and keep the agenda on track.