What is a Functioning Alcoholic? Definition & Warning Signs

In the latest government report, there has been a 56.7% increase in alcohol-specific deaths from 2006 to 2022. These deaths happen because people do not get the help they need and many don’t get this help because they think they don’t need it.

When you think of someone struggling with alcohol addiction – their life is coming apart at the seams and they are clearly in need of help. This doesn’t tell the whole story. Many people are suffering from addiction but can effectively function in their daily lives, masking their issues well.

A person like this is known as a high-functioning alcoholic. This is a dangerous thing as it might seem like alcohol is not affecting your life. This couldn’t be further from the truth as alcohol addiction is a destructive force and it will cause damage.

If you are concerned for yourself or someone else, it’s important to know what a functioning alcoholic is, the warning signs and know about the help that is out there.

What is a Functioning Alcoholic?

Functioning alcoholic is not a medical term but is used to describe someone who is suffering from alcohol use disorder but can perform daily tasks well enough to make it seem like nothing is wrong. This means they may have good hygiene, work, pay bills on time and socialise.

Underneath all that though they will fit the criteria of an alcoholic – having compulsions to drink and acting on it no matter what. High-functioning alcoholism shares many of the same characteristics as more traditional addiction but the main difference is the person’s ability to hide their alcohol abuse and operate fairly normally.

In the latest figures, there were estimated to be over 600,000 adults with alcohol dependence in England. In another report, It’s stated that just over 86,000 are seeking alcohol rehab treatment to deal with the issue. This shows that more people are living their lives dependent on alcohol without getting help. In the UK, the prevalence of high-functioning alcoholics hasn’t been looked at but a study from the USA suggested that almost 20% of alcoholics are functioning.

Warning Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic

Functioning alcoholics won’t admit they have a problem. If you are worried about someone else or yourself then you need to be aware of the warning signs of alcoholism. They can appear in every aspect of life – physically, emotionally and behaviourally.

Physical warning signs:

• Experience physical withdrawal symptoms
• High alcohol tolerance
• Having blackouts
• Getting ill more often
• Disrupted sleep

Emotional warning signs:

• Becoming more aggressive
• Worsening mental health
• More irritable if you haven’t drunk for a day or two

Behavioural warning signs:

• Drinking alone
• Joking about having an alcohol problem
• Being defensive about drinking habits
• Becoming more secretive about drinking
• Denial
• Repeated attempts to stop and being unable to

The Risks and Consequences of Being a Functioning Alcoholic

The reason why being a high-functioning alcoholic is so dangerous is that you do not see the cliff edge coming. With chronic drinking, you put yourself at risk in so many ways and will suffer the consequences before you have accepted you have a problem.

Knowing the dangers of alcohol abuse is so vital to beginning the recovery journey.

Physical health risks:

• Liver damage
• Heart disease
• Worsening brain function
• Cancer

Psychological risks:

• Alcohol-related mental health issues
• Increased risk of developing severe alcohol dependence
• Memory problems
• Increased risk of suicide

Social risks:

• Loss of job
• Financial difficulties
• Social isolation
• Strained relationships

How to Help a Functioning Alcoholic

A functioning alcoholic will be in denial about their problem. Though it is hard, being able to support a loved one in the right way, with empathy, is key to getting them to accept that they need rehabilitation. There are many steps you can take to start the conversation.

Educate Yourself

Becoming aware of the signs of alcoholism, the dangers of drinking, available treatment options and why people drink will help. With this knowledge, you can approach the subject with more understanding and empathy – and be able to provide solutions to problems.

Start a Dialogue

Broach the subject of their drinking at a time when you know they will be sober. Remain non-judgemental and empathetic and let them know it is a journey they do not have to go on alone.

Set Boundaries

You want to void enabling. By setting boundaries you make it clear that you find their drinking a problem. Lay out what you will accept and what you won’t – don’t make excuses for their drinking anymore and don’t be a part of purchasing alcohol.

With clear consequences for their actions, the person might come to accept that they have an issue that is affecting others.

Take Care of Yourself

Being the person someone relies on is tough. You can’t do it effectively if you don’t look after yourself. Build a support network around you, do things for yourself, exercise and eat well. Practising self-care will leave you in a better space mentally to help the person you care about.

Many resources exist to help you help someone else, including:

• Al-Anon
• We Are With You
• Adfam

Treatment Options for Functioning Alcoholic

Suffering from alcohol addiction is hard and you may have more questions than answers. The important thing to remember is that help is available. Asana Lodge provides a variety of treatment options that are capable of getting you sober and providing you with the tools to stay that way after you leave.

You will be able to experience a personalised treatment plan that is comprehensive and effective – following a proven path to sobriety.

Detox

Undergoing alcohol detox is essential to success. It’s the process of removing alcohol from your body by stopping your consumption. Doing this will bring on withdrawal symptoms that can be managed with medications. This process is uncomfortable but you will looked after and your discomfort will be minimised. Doing detox in a professional setting can reduce the risks.

Therapies

Dealing with alcohol use disorder means dealing with the underlying issues. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, group therapy and well-being therapies can help you understand your addiction better. You will learn healthier coping mechanisms and improve your mental health.

Success Stories

Asana Lodge boasts many success stories that demonstrate our effectiveness as a treatment centre.

“I cannot speak highly enough of the work taking place within Asana Lodge Rehab and will be sure to recommend to anyone struggling with addiction and are ready to make a radical shift in their life.” – Frank P

“Money well spent, life changing.” – SW

“This is a fantastic facility that focuses on all areas of addiction and mental health … I believe that this facility has saved my life.” – Mike

Get Support Today

If you are worried about yourself or someone else’s alcohol abuse, contact Asana Lodge now. We are a private drug and alcohol rehab that provides expert addiction treatment. No matter your situation we can give you the support and reassurance you need to make those big first steps.

For more information, call us now at 01908 489 421.