In the United States, many Americans with a substance use disorder are what is called high-functioning alcoholics. The distinctions between them and other alcoholics are worthy of note because it is often harder for people to recognize that someone who is high-functioning is, in fact, an alcoholic. High-functioning alcoholics will claim they do not need an alcohol addiction treatment program. They explain that their lives are not affected by alcohol; therefore, they are not addicted. However, that argument does not hold up upon examination.
If you are experiencing challenges with alcohol abuse or suspect someone you care about is a high-functioning alcoholic, contact Atlanta Detox Center today by completing our online form or calling 470.450.2355. Our alcohol addiction treatment program can help you begin the road to recovery.
Signs of a High-Functioning Alcoholic
What are your thoughts when you hear the term “alcoholism?” Most people think of individuals who cannot perform day-to-day activities, including maintaining a job, paying bills, and managing relationships. However, some people can still function when battling alcohol dependency.
High-functioning alcoholics may appear to be doing well in life. For example, they can be productive, high-earning professional achievers despite their substance use disorder. It can be a mistake to overlook your loved one’s drinking habits due to a lack of blatant problems with daily functioning. Regardless of how “fine” you or your loved one seem on the surface, the telltale cracks in the façade will appear if you look closer.
There are some telltale signs that alcohol abuse and addiction are likely to require immediate treatment at Atlanta Detox Center. Some of the signs of alcohol abuse and addiction include:
Frequent, Heavy Drinking
While the drinking habits of high-functioning alcoholics may not all look alike, if someone drinks heavily and often, abuse can be spotted. Heavy and regular drinking can signify early psychological and physical alcohol dependency or outright addiction. Remember, not all alcoholics “look drunk.” In other words, they may never slur their speech, stumble, or pass out, but if they’ve consumed a lot of alcohol, they are still intoxicated.
Inappropriate Day Drinking
Individuals with an alcohol use disorder resort to drinking during the day due to the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that occur when they miss a few drinking hours. A high-functioning alcoholic can develop behaviors like drinking early in the morning, sneaking drinks in the workplace, and drinking on the commute home. A single occasion of drinking during the day is not a cause for concern, but be on the lookout if a pattern emerges.
Denying Substance Use
Alcoholics usually deny their substance abuse, even if they know they have a problem and need help. They will continue their denial even if confronted about the amount of their drinking and how often they drink.
Drinking Alone
Some people who struggle with alcoholism but are still highly functioning will opt to drink alone to hide their behavior. Keeping their addiction secret may relate to shame or fear of consequences. Alcoholics often miss parties and other social gatherings because they know they are likely to engage in heavy drinking but do not want others’ judgment. As such, they prefer to drink alone. Such behaviors may indicate an alcohol use disorder. Why do you drink alone? Could it be anxiety or depression? Professional support at Atlanta Detox Center can help you to address the root cause of this addiction.
Normalizing Alcohol Use
Many highly functional alcoholics make jokes about drinking, including their drinking habits, in an attempt to make it all seem very normal. The reverse psychological effects of this strategy mean that people are so disarmed by an alcoholic’s open discussion of their drinking that they conclude that there can’t actually be a problem. Unfortunately, the problem of alcohol abuse is very real and needs to be addressed.
Getting Help for Alcoholism
While you may manage finances and relate reasonably well with your loved ones and colleagues, your overall well-being is at risk if you exhibit any of the above signs of alcoholism. Therefore, seeking professional help is critical. At Atlanta Detox Center, our rehab center can help you avoid the consequences of alcoholism through programs such as:
- Residential addiction treatment
- Individual therapy program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Group therapy program
- 12-Step programs
- Holistic therapies
Breaking through denial is the first step. If you are working just as hard to deny and hide your alcohol addiction as you are to show up at work and convince the world you are fine, you are in danger of hitting a wall, bottoming out, or becoming seriously ill. Please seek help at Atlanta Detox Center today.
Explore Alcohol Addiction Treatment at Atlanta Detox Center
Do you display the signs of a high-functioning alcoholic? Substance abuse is a chronic disease that can cause severe problems when left untreated. If you struggle with alcoholism, do not let the condition ruin your health, relationships, and happiness. A rehab facility can guide you throughout the recovery journey and provide continued recovery support. Reach out to Atlanta Detox Center by calling 470.450.2355 or using our online form. Get expert help today.
