Author: Gary Jackson

How to Help a High-Functioning Alcoholic

In the short term, alcohol use increases the risk for alcohol poisoning, fetal alcohol syndrome, accidents, injuries, violence, and risky sexual behavior. As the condition progresses, cognitive effects such as memory loss, impaired decision-making, and reduced mental clarity become more pronounced. These cognitive impairments can lead to feelings of frustration, decreased self-esteem, and a sense of isolation. Liver damage is the most talked about physical consequence and that is a concern almost immediately.

• But most high-functioning alcoholics have friends or loved ones who help them cover up the consequences of their drinking.
• The Nestled can help you take the first step towards a healthier, happier life free from addiction.
• An addiction therapist can help you find positive ways to deal with the stress of living with a functional alcoholic.
• Organizations such as the American Society of Addiction Medicine can guide you to help, too.
• As society continues to deal with the widespread issue of alcohol dependence, shedding light on this particular aspect is crucial.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) is committed to delivering original, truthful, accurate, unbiased, and medically current information. We strive to create content that is clear, concise, and easy to understand. Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss…from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

What Recovery and Support Options Exist for Functional Alcoholics?

Your doctor or another medical or mental health professional can provide you with more information and guidance about alcoholism and suggest how to speak to your loved one. For the functional alcoholic, the denial runs deep, because they have yet to encounter significant negative consequences. Recognizing a functional alcoholic isn’t always straightforward; it’s about peering through the veneer of normalcy to understand the struggle that lies beneath. As society continues to deal with the widespread issue of alcohol dependence, shedding light on this particular aspect is crucial. It’s not just about identifying the problem; it’s about having a deeper understanding and compassion towards those who navigate this challenging path, often in silence.

If you think that you or someone you know may be drinking too much, ask your doctor about getting help – whether it’s from a therapist, psychiatrist, or other addiction specialist. Organizations such as the American Society of Addiction Medicine can guide you to help, too. ” self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with an alcohol use disorder (AUD). The evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are intended to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of an AUD. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result.

Living with a High-Functioning Alcoholic: Signs and Support

An addiction therapist can help you find positive ways to deal with the stress of living with a functional alcoholic. Consciously or unconsciously, the codependent may help the alcoholic to continue drinking to maintain the status quo. Many high-functioning alcoholics earn a good living and can support their families while continuing to drink. Intervening in the addictive behavior may be seen as a threat to the family’s financial security — even if the family must put up with emotional neglect or physical abuse. The U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics noted that nearly 60% of violent incidents against a domestic partner or family member were committed under the influence of alcohol.

American Addiction Centers offers a range of treatment services in facilities across the country to help treat alcohol use disorders. With our help, patients don’t only appear to function normally, but feel and experience life to its greatest potential as a sober and recovering individual. If they are open to change, support their recovery journey, understanding that it may be filled with setbacks.

More on Substance Abuse and Addiction

Avoid accusatory language, focusing instead on specific behaviors and their impact. Encourage them to seek professional help, offering to accompany them to appointments or support groups if they’re open to it. It’s crucial to avoid enabling their behavior; don’t cover up for them or make excuses. Instead, set clear boundaries for what you will and won’t accept in your relationship.