There is a myth (or is it wishful thinking?) that if you drink a lot but can go about life as normal then you must not be an alcoholic.
That is, if you manage to complete day to day tasks then your drinking is not an issue
This just isn't true.
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The definition of a functional alcoholic is somebody who displays signs of alcoholism (or at least some of them) but is able to live a 'normal' life.
They get up in the morning, have breakfast, go to work, put the kids to bed, play football on a Saturday, keep their partner happy......and so on. Everything is just fine...in their eyes at least.
Sorry to burst the bubble but, yes, you can function as an alcoholic and for quite some time. However, eventually, alcoholism progression will mean you won't be able to keep up the act anymore.
Are you a functioning alcoholic? Do you want to do something about your drinking but are unwilling to embrace Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12 step way? The Sinclair Method is a viable and statistically effective alternative to the 12 steps, involving none of the shame and powerlessness used in the AA recovery system.
Alcoholism is progressive. This means that is follows a definite path and goes through distinctive phases or alcoholism stages. The final stage is, unfortunately, death unless help is sought.
During the first two alcoholism stages, it is possible to cover up your excessive drinking but enter the final stages of alcoholism and this is just not an option anymore.
In end stage alcoholism you can no longer hide your alcoholic abuse. There is only so much drinking the body can take and the long term effects of alcoholism and alcohol abuse health effects will become very visible.
Anyway having a functioning life and a good life are not the same.
Why be a functional alcoholic when you can break your addiction forever and have a more fulfilling life? And....
.....you may be functioning at the moment but if you don't think about quitting drinking soon then you may well be dysfunctional not too long from now.
I don't want to preach but if you suspect you are (or someone you care about is) a functional alcoholic get help NOW before it is too late.
![]() Do you live with a functional alcoholic? Loving an alcohol dependent is one of the most painful things you will ever have to cope with. However, there is hope. C.P.Lehman in his book, Help Me! I'm In Love With An Addict provides you with the strategies that will enable you to find contentment and get your life back where you want it to be. |
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Lead Writer/Reviewer : Kayla Loibl
Licensed Medical Health Professional
Hello!
I am a Mental Health Counselor who is licensed in both New York (LMHC) and North Carolina (LCMHC). I have been working in the Mental Health field since 2015. I have worked in a residential setting, an outpatient program and an inpatient addictions program. I began working in Long Island, NY and then in Guelph, Ontario after moving to Canada. Read More
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