People’s drinking patterns affect them in different ways. For many who struggle with alcohol use disorder, their day to day functioning is impaired. However, others can lead seemingly normal lives while drinking frequently. Since they might function adequately at work or at home, it is often too late before they realize they have a problem and seek treatment. This post will highlight five signs of a functioning alcoholic, and how treatment at Blueprint Recovery Center can help.
What Is A Functioning Alcoholic?
A functioning alcoholic is a person with a dependency on alcohol who can still function in society. Even while having an alcohol use disorder, they can still manage areas of their lives like their relationships, work, and homes. Many may avoid experiencing blackout episodes, losing control of emotions due to alcohol use, or displaying considerable personality changes. With their lives seemingly in order, their drinking can often go unaddressed. However, their drinking can steadily become worse, eventually having negative impacts on their lives and health.
Five Signs That Someone Is Hiding Alcohol Use Disorder
Regardless of how unaffected someone might seem, alcohol use disorder can still have a lasting impact on their health. Knowing how to identify a functioning alcoholic is the first step to quickly getting them substance abuse treatment. While the symptoms can vary, look out for the following five:
1. Frequent And Heavy Drinking
While drinking habits vary, theirs will gradually increase in frequency and amount. They might begin moderately, often drinking one or two drinks a day, but once their tolerance grows, the number of daily drinks increases. Regularly consuming alcohol in substantial amounts could indicate either a psychological dependence or an alcohol use disorder.
2. Drinking During The Day
Once alcohol dependency develops, consuming more alcohol is the only way to avoid withdrawal symptoms. One occasion of drinking during the day does not necessarily mean that someone has a disorder. However, if it becomes more frequent or is hidden, then it could be time for concern. Behaviors like drinking as soon as you wake up or sneaking drinks during your work break could be telltale signs.
3. Frequently Drinking Alone
They are more likely to drink alone to avoid detection or judgment. They might attend social events and drink with others, but continue to drink once they get home. In some cases, they may skip the event altogether to stay home and drink heavily.
4. Drinking As A Way To Cope
There are several hardships that people often go through in their daily lives. These hardships often lead to stress, frustration, and even depression. Continually turning to alcohol as your only stress reliever can point to a more significant problem. This builds your tolerance and leads to increased dependency.
5. Avoidance Or Denial
Even with all the above symptoms, they will often deny or ignore their condition. They might use their ability to maintain order in some areas of their lives to show that they have no problem. The more sense of control they feel they have, the more likely they are to maintain their denial.
Treatment For Functioning Alcoholics at Blueprint Recovery Center
If these signs are present in a loved one, it is recommended that you try getting them treatment as soon as possible. Depending on the stage of their addiction, there are various treatment options available. Some of these treatments include:
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Men’s rehab center
- Women’s rehab center
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Partial hospitalization program
At Blueprint Recovery Center, our alcohol abuse disorder treatment is readily accessible to those in need. Our approach is aimed at addressing each patient’s specific needs, ensuring a lasting recovery. If you or someone you love is a functioning alcoholic, get in touch with Blueprint Recovery Center at 833.654.1004 and let us help you address your addiction today.
