Having an alcohol abuse problem doesn’t always look like that common portrayal of a person lying on the street homeless, dirty disheveled clothing, and a brown bag in their one hand. Only a small percentage of those addicted to alcohol get to that point. In actuality, a large majority of those who have a problem can get through the day fine. They have jobs, attend family functions, and often avoid having all but their closest friends and family suspecting there is anything wrong. These are all signs of a functioning alcoholic in society. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have an alcohol problem, read on to see the other signs of a functioning alcoholic.
The Hidden Addiction
A functioning alcoholic doesn’t normally give the impression that there is a problem with alcohol. These people may stay sober all day long, but come home and drink until they pass out every night. These are the people that may simply be seen as someone who doesn’t know when to stop. For example, they may only drink on weekends but may not limit the amount they drink, ending up drunk every time alcohol is involved. Others may never see them drink. Think of the housewife who drinks throughout the day, never quite getting drunk. She drinks only when alone and paces herself, so she can still do what needs to be done. Many times the person with the drinking problem is often in denial about how much they drink.
Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic
You can ask yourself if you or your loved one shows the following signs of a functional alcoholic:
- Do you often make jokes about your drinking and being an alcoholic? This will normally happen when you feel someone may be judging you.
- Have you lost friendships or relationships due to drinking but continued drinking?
- Have you experienced a DUI?
- Do you use alcohol as a way to either feel more confident or relax at the end of the day?
- Has a loved one expressed concern about your drinking?
- Do you often drink alone?
- Are you hiding how much you drink or hiding booze in places like your work office or an unexpected place at home?
These are just several of the telling signs you can look for.
What the Future Holds
A person can exhibit the signs of a functioning alcoholic for many years and never feel the repercussions. They may keep a high-paying job, hold their marriage together, and otherwise appear to be completely successful to the outside world. Over time, however, the alcohol will do the same damage physically that it does to anyone with an alcohol use problem. You will find yourself experiencing more sick days from work and more medical bills. Feeling confident in your ability to either hide your abuse or still in denial that there is a problem, you may find yourself facing DUI charges. If someone does confront you, your reaction may find you in a situation where you over-react and get charged with domestic violence. Signs of a functioning alcoholic now will more than likely evolve into noticeable alcohol abuse symptoms somewhere along the line.
Dealing with the Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic with Westwind Recovery®
You don’t need to allow alcohol to rule your life any longer. Rehab isn’t a sterile place that reminds you of a hospital. Contact Westwind Recovery® if you or a loved one show signs of a functioning alcoholic and see what we have to offer. Our regular rehab program also includes weekly trips to such places as beaches, waterfalls, skiing, and much more. These mini-adventures can remind you of the great adventure you are choosing to embark on, that of sobriety. 855.340.8832
