Have you ever known someone who seemed to have it all? On the outside, they had the perfect career, family and home — all while hiding a dependency on alcohol. This type of individual is referred to as a high-functioning alcoholic. They appear polished, professional and well-adjusted. Get answers to the question “What is a high-functioning alcoholic?” and explore the signs, risks and treatment options.
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol use that affects daily life, Camelback Recovery offers multiple care options to get you back on track.
What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?
Approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 12 and older has an alcohol use disorder. Common symptoms include excessive alcohol consumption, binge drinking, mental health disorders, lack of interest in hobbies and problems with relationships.
Symptoms of high-functioning alcoholics fall under the umbrella of alcohol use disorder and range from mild to severe. These individuals lead a double life. They are reliable and appear to have it all together. Quite often, they’re the life of the party at gatherings. But when they’re alone, they struggle with anxiety and guilt, trying to manage their alcohol addiction in private.
High-Functioning Alcoholic Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
High-functioning alcoholic signs are subtle and often well hidden. The following are a few behaviors and attitudes to look for.
They Rarely Miss Work or Obligations
High-functioning alcoholics handle their responsibilities well. They rarely miss a day of work. At home, though, the person may need a bottle of wine every night to decompress and fall asleep.
Drinking in Secret or Downplaying Consumption
Many high-functioning alcoholics drink in secret to help maintain their image. They may keep a hidden flask in their desk or under the seat of their car.
Increased Tolerance and Denial
Over time, the body needs more alcohol to achieve the same effects it once did. If you confront someone about their drinking, they may become angry or irritable and lose their temper.
Mood Swings, Anxiety or Irritability When Not Drinking
When a functional alcoholic can’t drink, their mood shifts dramatically depending on the situation. For example, if the person attends a long office meeting that runs over, they may start to pick fights with coworkers over small issues.
Reliance on Alcohol for Stress or Socializing
Alcohol becomes a crutch to get through each day. The person may find they have to have a drink at the end of the day to cope.
Recognizing these symptoms is one of the first steps to healing. Our treatment options are specifically designed to help an individual balance their personal and professional lives.
Living With a High-Functioning Alcoholic: Challenges & Coping Strategies
Living with a high-functioning alcoholic can be stressful. It’s important to establish boundaries, communicate and seek support from organizations and others who understand alcoholism.
How to Encourage Someone to Seek Help Without Judgment
There are a few ways to encourage someone to seek help without coming across as judgmental.
- Choose the correct time. Talk to the person when they’re sober and you’re calm.
- Use “I” statements. Use “I” statements to focus on your feelings instead of placing blame. For example, say, “I feel worried when I see you drinking alone after work,” instead of, “You drink too much after work.”
- Point out specific behaviors. Mention heavy drinking habits you find concerning rather than making broad accusations.
- Offer support. Tell them you genuinely want to help them.
At Camelback Recovery, we know how to help someone with an alcohol dependence who appears fine. Learn more about our methods.
Is High-Functioning Alcoholism Still Dangerous?
Functioning simply means the person is still able to meet their daily obligations. It doesn’t mean the behavior is safe or healthy. The dangers of high-functioning alcoholism are significant, even if the outcome is delayed. Alcohol abuse and excessive drinking can lead to emotional isolation and serious health problems, such as:
- Increased risk of cancer
- Liver disease
- Cognitive decline
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Lung infections
- Heart disease
The longer an individual waits to get help, the greater the risk of developing health-related issues.
What Treatment Options Are Best for High-Functioning Alcoholics?
High-functioning alcoholics often require a special treatment approach that respects their privacy and lifestyle. At Camelback Recovery, we offer luxury rehab facilities, trauma-informed providers and dual-diagnosis care that addresses both addiction and mental health issues. Our programs include:
- Inpatient vs. outpatient care. We offer both an intensive inpatient treatment that provides supervised support through withdrawal and treatment and outpatient addiction rehab that allows individuals to fulfill their work commitments.
- Holistic therapy. Our holistic therapies go beyond traditional talk therapy with proven treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
- Sober living homes . Our sober living environments are a gateway between intensive inpatient care and returning home.
- Confidentiality and personalized care. We guarantee complete privacy with all our programs.
Regardless of what type of therapy you’re looking for, Camelback Recovery offers high-end care with results. Begin your treatment today.
Empowerment Starts With Awareness: Take the First Step Toward Healing
What is a high-functioning alcoholic? The answer to that question is the first step toward healing. Once you understand the individual is someone struggling with a progressive disease, you can approach the situation without judgment and with care. Healing is possible.
For more information on available alcohol treatment programs in Arizona, contact Camelback Recovery to get started today.
FAQs
- Can a high-functioning alcoholic quit drinking without help?
While it’s possible to quit without assistance, it’s best to seek professional treatment to get through withdrawal safely and to address the root cause of the addiction. - What’s the difference between a regular alcoholic and a high-functioning alcoholic?
The main difference is that because a high-functioning alcoholic often hides their addiction, they haven’t yet experienced the external consequences of their actions, such as job loss due to absenteeism from addiction. - Is it okay to confront a high-functioning alcoholic?
Yes, but it’s important to be empathetic and focus on concern more than blame. - Are there specific treatments tailored for high-functioning alcoholics?
Camelback Recovery’s discreet and flexible programs let individuals receive support and treatment on their own time. - Can high-functioning alcoholics maintain relationships?
Most high-functioning alcoholics maintain relationships with family members and loved ones, but the quality of these relationships often suffers due to mood swings and emotional distance.
