A functional alcoholic is a person who has the need to use alcohol on a consistent basis but seems to be able to handle daily life just fine. Can you be a casual drinker? Or, are you facing a real alcohol addiction that limits your health and puts you at risk for complicated addiction? At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we work with men and women who are experiencing the signs of a functioning alcoholic. That means we can help you to stop using alcohol.
You Don’t Fit the Stereotype
It’s common to think of a person with alcoholism to be walking around with a bottle in hand or a glass always next to them. However, these stereotypes are less common than most people think. In many cases, people who have jobs, have families, participate in their community, and seem to have it together may actually be a functioning alcoholic. If you have the signs of a functioning alcoholic, you need treatment to regain confidence, health, and mental wellbeing.
How do you know, though, if you really have a problem or if you just like a drink every day after work to settle your mind?
Common Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic
The following are some of the most common signs of a functioning alcoholic. If you experience these, chances are good you are no longer a casual drinker.
- You can’t always control how much you drink. Often drink heavily.
- You promise to stop drinking but are unable to keep that promise.
- Don’t always get drunk, but you need alcohol to function or to feel normal.
- You don’t eat as much but would rather have a glass of alcohol instead.
- You find yourself making excuses for your mistakes or forgetfulness.
- Experience blackouts.
- You think about your next drink a lot.
If you have these signs of a functioning alcoholic, it may be time to consider the treatment options available to you. Keep in mind that just because you can “hold it together” right now, doesn’t mean this can last. For most people, it doesn’t.
You’re not alone in this. In a news report, an estimated 32 million adults in the U.S. believed that they have an alcohol use disorder. That’s 1 in 7 people.
How Does an Alcoholic Function So Well?
While it is not always the case, some people with an alcohol substance use disorder are able to fit in and engage with life rather easily, or it would seem. A functional alcoholic is a person that has a dependence on the drug. They have a tolerance for it and, if they stop using, they have intense cravings. However, you may still be able to have what seems to be a healthy relationship and work. That happens because of the body’s ability to adapt to the alcohol. For a long time, you may feel okay. One day, though, it nearly always breaks down.
What to Do If You Have These Signs?
If you have the signs of a functioning alcoholic, it’s time to get help. Because your body is so used to the drug, you will need to consider alcohol detox treatment as a first step. During this process, our medication-assisted program will help to remove the substance from your body. This can be painful, and you are likely to have some cravings. In our safe environment, you’ll be able to break those feelings and work towards recovery.
For those who are ready to change, our team can help. We provide a dual diagnosis treatment program for those who use alcohol to cover up mental health complications. We can also help you with deal with alcohol withdrawals and cravings as well as other drug addiction treatments you need.
Are You Ready for Change? Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida Can Help
If you are seeing the signs of a functioning alcoholic in your life or that of a loved one, there is help available. You don’t have to keep walking that unsteady line. You can get the help you need to improve your health and your future. Reach out to Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, to start on the first steps towards your recovery. Speak to our licensed, experienced team at 866.294.5306.
