Many people have an idea of what someone with alcoholism might be like. Some may imagine a person who can’t work, is unhoused, or unable to function in their daily life. However, many people who meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD) continue to go to work, care for others, and engage in other daily tasks.
Around 20% of all people living with AUD fall into the category of “high-functioning alcoholism.” People living with functional alcoholism may struggle with the effects of alcohol abuse while continuing to meet their basic needs.
This article will explore what it means to be a high-functioning alcoholic. You will learn:
- The signs of high-functioning alcoholism
- How to recognize alcohol abuse and addiction
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Compassionate, holistic treatment is available at Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is High-Functioning Alcoholism?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a term that encompasses alcohol abuse and addiction. Some people refer to alcohol addiction as “alcoholism.” Alcohol addiction can significantly impact a person’s health, safety, emotional well-being, relationships, and more.
High-functioning alcoholism occurs when someone lives with alcohol addiction but can function in their daily life. People with high-functioning alcoholism may continue to attend school, go to work, care for family, and take care of their basic needs.
But how does someone develop functional alcoholism? Long periods of heavy drinking can change how the brain and body function. After long-term heavy alcohol consumption, a person’s body may develop alcohol dependence. This means that their body needs alcohol to function properly.
One of the signs of alcohol dependence is tolerance. Tolerance means that the body has adjusted to an amount of a substance. People with tolerance need to drink more to feel the effects of alcohol.
Over time, tolerance can become very high. People with functional tolerance may be able to drink a lot of alcohol without feeling or appearing drunk. They may continue doing their daily activities without others recognizing their drinking habits.
While people with high-functioning alcoholism may continue to function, they still have the same risk factors for physical and mental health problems as others with alcohol addiction. Some of the risks associated with heavy drinking include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Liver disease
- Increased risk of certain cancers (stomach, colon, throat, breast, oral)
- Impaired immune system
- New and worsening mental health symptoms
When people with alcohol dependence quit drinking alcohol, they are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Some alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening. People with alcohol addiction often need intensive treatment to stop drinking.
Recognizing the Signs of High-Functioning Alcoholism
Friends, family members, and others may not recognize the signs of high-functioning alcoholism. It can be challenging to recognize the signs of alcohol addiction in someone who continues to function normally.
However, there are some behaviors to watch for, including:
- Talking a lot about drinking or being excited about drinking
- Being hungover a lot
- Drinking frequently
- Finishing other people’s drinks
- Engaging in more risky behaviors (driving after drinking, having unprotected sex)
- Denying they have a drinking problem if asked or downplaying how much they drink
- Drinking more during stressful times
- Engaging in binge drinking at social events or at inappropriate times
Friends and family may also notice other signs of a person’s drinking, such as finding a hidden stockpile of liquor or empty bottles. They may discover alcohol in other drink containers, such as water bottles or coffee cups.
People with high-functioning alcoholism may deny that they have a substance abuse problem. They may use humor or defensiveness to downplay their drinking. In many cases, people will continue to drink until they experience severe consequences, like an accident or the breakup of a relationship.
Family and friends may consider staging an intervention to help their loved one recognize the severity of their problem and find immediate treatment options.
Treating High-Functioning Alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) treatment is available in several levels of care, including inpatient and outpatient treatment. Many people with alcoholism require an inpatient medical detox. A medical detox program consists of:
- 24/7 supervision and access to treatment
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety during detox
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- Holistic therapies, like mindfulness, nutrition support, and exercise
After completing detox, people must continue treatment to address the roots of AUD. Treatment facilities often offer comprehensive treatment programs in several levels of care. Treatment plans may include:
- Medical treatment and medication management
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning and support
It can be challenging to overcome alcohol addiction, but getting the right treatment and support can help. Working with mental health and medical professionals can help people with alcoholism recover and move forward.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs treatment for alcoholism, you are not alone. Compassionate, effective treatment is available at Agape Behavioral Health. Reach out to our specialists to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): Researchers Identify Alcoholism Subtypes
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol’s Effects on Health
