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Functional alcoholism is more common than many people realize because it doesn’t always look like what we expect. In fact, some individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder can maintain jobs, relationships and daily responsibilities, many times without others noticing.
When alcohol misuse is hidden beneath a seemingly stable lifestyle, it’s often referred to as “hidden alcoholism” or “high-functioning alcoholic.”
What Is Functional Alcoholism?
Although a seemingly less severe form of alcoholism, functional alcoholism still falls under the category of a substance use disorder (SUD). Medically, functional alcoholism is termed “high-functioning alcohol use disorder.”
When someone has functional alcoholism, they meet the clinical criteria for an alcohol use disorder. Still, they can maintain a semblance of normalcy in their private and professional lives, often with a thriving career and stable home life.
Yet despite their perceived life success, those with functional alcoholism remain at risk of disease progression and unalterable struggles if their drinking continues.
Signs of a High-Functioning Alcoholic
Signs of a High-functioning alcoholic may not always be obvious, so it is helpful to know what to look for:
- Drinking daily but maintaining responsibilities
- Drinking alone
- Memory lapses
- Increased tolerance
These indicators are often present in those who are drinking enough that their intake is no longer considered social drinking.
Although these signs do not always point to true alcoholism, they are behavioral changes that warrant more attention and deeper conversation.
Why Functional Alcoholism Is Dangerous
Maintaining a career and a relatively stable home life may give the false idea that an individual’s alcohol use is not negatively affecting their life.
However, there are health risks associated with frequent drinking:
- Neurological harm
- Decreased executive functioning
- Cognitive decline
- Liver damage
Because alcoholism is a progressive disease, attempting to remain a functional alcoholic is nearly impossible. Daily consumption of alcohol can lead to disease progression, negatively impacting daily life and one’s personal health.
When Does It Become Alcohol Use Disorder?
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), drinking beyond certain limits can significantly increase the risk of developing alcohol use disorder. For women, this means having more than 7 drinks per week, and for men, more than 14.
Exceeding these guidelines places individuals at a higher risk if a disorder hasn’t already begun to develop.
If your drinking begins to cause distress, or negatively impacts your daily life, career or family, it may be time to seek professional care.
Treatment Options
Treatment for alcohol addiction is not restricted to only severe cases, but to anyone who struggles with drinking at any level. If you or a loved one feels that alcohol is negatively impacting your life, seeking treatment may be the right choice.
You’re invited to explore our directory of addiction treatment providers and search for care options that fit your insurance, specific needs, and location. Please also call at any time to speak with someone for additional guidance.
Functional Alcoholism FAQs
Can You Be an Alcoholic and Still Hold a Job?
Yes. Many people who struggle with alcohol use disorder are still able to maintain a job, this is often referred to as functional alcoholism.
Alcohol use treatment is available in a range of settings, from structured inpatient programs to community-based organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous which offer peer support in a non-clinical environment. The right level of care depends on your unique situation, including how much you drink, how often and for how long.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to make a change, don’t wait to find out what kind of support could help. Reaching out to a professional or support group today can be the first step toward regaining control and building a healthier, happier future.
What are Early Signs of Alcoholism?
Early warning signs of alcoholism include: failed attempts to decrease drinking, uncontrolled drinking, increased tolerance, a struggling career and/or personal life.
How Much is Too Much Drinking?
The NIAA states that a woman drinking more than 7 drinks a week or a man more than 14 indicates a possible alcohol use disorder.
Is Functional Alcoholism Common?
Yes, functional alcoholism is a common form of alcohol use disorder, with nearly 20% of U.S. alcoholics falling into this category. Functional alcoholic symptoms may be subtle, but there may still be a problem.
When Should I Seek Treatment?
Consider seeking alcoholism treatment when your drinking begins impacting your daily life, you’re unable to quit on your own, or you have become dependent upon alcohol to maintain daily functioning.
