Alcohol addiction is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition affecting millions worldwide. Unfortunately, many individuals with addictions do not recognize the severity of their condition and often downplay addiction. Although functioning alcoholics can maintain their personal and professional relationships while regularly consuming alcohol, it is essential to understand that they might be struggling with alcohol addiction. Just because someone can function while drinking does not mean they do not have an underlying problem.
If you need help better understanding functional alcoholic behavior, reach out to Spokane Falls Recovery Center. Our caring and experienced team specializes in assisting individuals in identifying, understanding, and managing their drinking habits. At our alcohol rehab center, people can explore their relationship with alcohol and learn the tools necessary to live a happy, healthy life without relying on drinking.
It is important not to underestimate the seriousness of functional alcohol addiction. If you or someone you know might be struggling with alcohol addiction, call us today at 844.962.2775, and we can help identify the signs of alcoholism.
What Is Considered a Functioning Alcoholic?
Functioning alcoholics can maintain their personal and professional lives despite their alcohol addiction. These individuals may be able to hold down a job, maintain relationships, and fulfill their daily responsibilities, but they often rely on alcohol to cope with stress or anxiety. Functioning alcoholics may be in denial about the effects of their addiction, or they may genuinely believe they can control their drinking.
Characteristics of a Functioning Alcoholic
Several characteristics are commonly associated with functioning alcoholics. These characteristics may include:
- Drinking alone or in secret
- Drinking to relieve stress or escape problems
- Hiding the amount or frequency of their drinking
- Feeling guilty or ashamed about their drinking
- Showing signs of withdrawal or irritability when unable to drink
- Prioritizing drinking over other activities or responsibilities
- Developing a high tolerance to alcohol
- Drinking before or during work functions
- Lying about the amount of alcohol they consume
Recognizing the warning signs and seeking professional help if necessary is important. With proper treatment, it is possible to learn how to manage drinking habits in a healthy way.
Why Is It Important to Recognize the Signs of a Functional Alcoholic?
Recognizing the signs of alcoholism in a functioning alcoholic is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, even though these individuals may seem to have their lives under control, chronic alcohol consumption can lead to severe physical health complications, including liver disease, heart disease, and neurological damage. Functioning alcoholics may also experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Additionally, their ability to maintain their lifestyle can mask the severity of the addiction, delaying intervention and valuable treatment. The sooner the signs of alcoholism are recognized, the sooner the person can access the help they need to overcome this health-threatening dependency and start their recovery.
How to Find Addiction Treatment for a Fully Functional Alcoholic
If you or a loved one is a functioning alcoholic, it is important to seek professional help. At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, we offer several treatment options available for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction, including our partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and outpatient programs (OPs).
Our experienced addiction professionals will work with your loved one to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and recovery goals. We understand how hard it can be to seek help for addiction, but our compassionate and understanding staff will be there every step of the way for the support you or a loved one will need.
Call Spokane Falls Recovery Center for Alcohol Addiction Treatment Today
Spokane Falls Recovery Center offers evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. Our addiction and recovery care are tailored to each patient, considering their unique needs and circumstances. We believe in a holistic approach, which means that our programs focus on healing all aspects of a person that addiction can impact, including the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Contact us by calling 844.962.2775 or leave us a message on our contact form to learn more about our treatment services and how we can help you or your loved one overcome addiction. Our team is here to answer any of your questions and provide the support you need during this complex time.