Long-term, chronic drinking damages a person’s brain, heart, liver, and other vital organs. High-functioning alcoholics who drink for decades risks developing cirrhosis, cancer, and heart disease. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

Who Are High-Functioning Alcoholics?

They may be highly educated, respected members of their community, or even have a supportive family life. This makes it challenging to identify their struggles with alcoholism, as they often hide their addiction well. If the individual remains in denial or refuses to seek help, a formal intervention led by a clinician or intervention specialist may be necessary. In these carefully managed sessions, friends, family, and colleagues can share how the person’s alcohol use affects them and lovingly but firmly insist on treatment. It’s crucial to note that anyone, regardless of background, can become a high-functioning alcoholic.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment

When someone you care about is a high-functioning alcoholic, it can be challenging to know how to best support them. It’s important to approach the situation with empathy, provide emotional support, and encourage them to seek treatment. Here are some strategies to consider when supporting a loved one who is a high-functioning alcoholic. Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall wellness and can significantly impact the recovery process for high-functioning alcoholics. Alcoholism often leads to nutritional deficiencies, which can further contribute to physical and mental health issues. Therefore, addressing proper nutrition is an integral part of holistic treatment.

Transformative Interventions for High-Functioning Alcoholics

• For a high functioning alcoholic, they find managing work and life normally.
• A comprehensive treatment approach that combines medication, therapy, and support provides the best chance for successful recovery.
• There are various treatment programs available, including inpatient rehab, outpatient programs, and support groups.
• Over time, you may struggle to maintain social and familial obligations and relationships.

Remember that ultimately, the decision to seek treatment lies with the individual. Offer to accompany them to appointments or meetings if they feel comfortable, and remind them that they are not alone in their struggle. If you’re concerned about your drinking, reaching out for support can be the first step toward recovery. Classic signs of alcoholism2 may be missing or disguised in the high-functioning alcoholic. They’re able to hold down their jobs, perform family duties, get along with others and behave, for the most part, normally.

Seeking Support For Yourself

Contact us today to discuss your personalized treatment plan toward sobriety. Seeking professional help increases the chances of long-term sobriety and a healthier future. That’s why it’s important that you, as a loved one of the person struggling with addiction, is able to help and support them as best you can. Living with a high functioning alcoholic can be challenging but there are some steps you can take as a loving partner, friend, sibling, or parent to help them. The first thing you need to do is avoid enabling their alcoholism by covering for them. functional alcoholic husband Whether it is making excuses for their behaviors or covering for their expenses.

They may put themselves and others at risk by secretly driving under the influence with marijuana addiction children in the car. Even though they think they’re being good parents, high-functioning alcoholics can’t be fully committed to their children’s well-being when alcohol is also a major part of their life. On the outside, high-functioning alcoholics may appear to be great parents. They may show up to their child’s events and seem to have good relationships with their children. But they may choose to drink at home instead of spending time with their children.

• The test helps give your doctor an idea of what treatment is best for you.
• These interventions focus on the individual’s overall health and well-being, recognizing that alcoholism impacts various aspects of their lives.
• These practices can provide individuals with the tools to better cope with triggers and cravings, ultimately supporting their recovery journey.
• Screening and brief3 intervention may be necessary if the high-functioning alcoholic admits (or not) to the problem yet refuses to get help in the form of treatment.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Options

Many rehab centers offer assistance in verifying insurance coverage to help make treatment accessible. Denial keeps high functioning alcoholics from recognizing their problem, delaying help and worsening consequences. Acknowledging the signs, listening to concerns from loved ones, and seeking professional guidance are key steps toward recovery.

Addictions

Regrettably, in many cases, other people in their lives affirm their denial by agreeing with their excuses and encouraging them to drink more. Spouses and family members of high-functioning alcoholics sometimes makes excuses for them as well and continue to keep alcohol at home. Whether you have an alcoholic spouse, partner or other loved one, you may be wondering how to help.

We provide reliable, fact-based content about behavioral health conditions, treatment options, and what to expect during the recovery process. Our materials are thoroughly researched and reviewed by licensed medical professionals to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. While our content is a valuable resource, it’s important to remember that it is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment. Each intervention plays a unique role in addressing different aspects of alcohol misuse and promoting positive change.