How Do I Know I Am A Functioning Alcoholic? 4 Warning Signs to Watch For

A classic picture of an alcoholic is someone who is constantly drinking. That person’s life is falling apart because of alcohol, and they are in denial. However, that’s not always the case. Some people are doing just fine even though they abuse alcohol. They are called high-functioning alcoholics

These people are hard to spot because their life isn’t falling apart. Plus, they seem to blend with normal people. But, you should know how to spot a high-functioning alcohol when you see one. Because they need help, it’s your moral duty to offer assistance. But how do you know if someone is alcoholic? Never mind that, how do you know you are not an alcoholic? 

In this blog post, we will stress alcohol abuse and share 4 warning signs to watch out for. So keep reading to find out if you are low-key abusing alcohol. 

4 Signs of Alcohol Abuse

If you are reading this blog post, then you suspect you have an alcohol problem. Or you think someone close to you is dying by their own hands. Here are 4 warning signs of alcohol abuse that’ll help you doubt or confirm your suspicions. 

  • They Look Fine on the Outside 

As we mentioned above, functioning alcoholics are fine on the outside. They seem to have a perfect life. They have money, power, and friends, but you notice that they drink too often. High-functioning alcoholics make excuses like “I only drink expensive wine” or “one last shot,” but they never stop. 

Alcohol abuse is clearly visible. If you see someone drinking more often than they should, they are addicted. Their life might seem perfect, but it isn’t. Functioning alcoholics suffer from depression and anxiety. They might act out if you tell them to quit drinking so much. They are hard to spot, so keep reading to learn about other signs of alcohol abuse. 

  • They Aren’t Able to Keep Major Responsibilities 

High-functioning alcoholics aren’t capable of keeping major responsibilities. They might do good at work, but they fail at basic stages of life. This might include having a healthy family or being nice to their partner. 

The best way to point out a functioning alcoholic is to evaluate their personal relationship. If your suspect is constantly struggling to find love, they might be an alcohol addict. You’ll often find them at the bar drinking and thinking about the mistakes they made. They might have a sports car, but no one besides them. 

  • They Have Legal Problems Due to Drinking 

If your suspect has been struggling with DUI, but they are not admitting it, you might be right. However, it’s too soon to jump to conclusions. Many people have DUIs, that doesn’t mean they are functioning alcoholics. But if you see other aspects of their life being ruined due to drinking, you might be onto something. 

Functioning alcoholics are pretty much normal when you meet them. But if they always have a bottle in hand, they need help. Alcohol abuse isn’t always going to destroy your materialistic life. It robs you of good friends and a loving partner. 

  • Need a Drink to Feel Confident or Relaxed

They might be the life of the party, but they are always at their max when they are drunk. But that’s normal. Everyone gets tipsy at parties. But you notice that your suspect has a drinking habit. They have linked their confidence with drinking. Your suspect might come to a family dinner reeking of alcohol. Or throw a stellar presentation while smelling like vodka. 

This is a sure-shot sign of a functioning alcoholic. This person needs help, but you can’t confront them directly. You should take baby steps and ask them to slow down their habit. If that doesn’t work, you can try other options like outpatient rehab

Save Yourself Before You Fall Too Deep

It’s never too late to seek medical help for alcohol abuse. It’s not shameful to admit it either. Many alcoholics have found a better life after accepting their situation. And you can do this too if you think you are abusing alcohol. 

With More Life Recovery, you can quickly get your life back on track. They are committed to helping you achieve and maintain long-term recovery. 

Call 1 (888) 825-8689 for 24/7 Customer Support or visit our website for more information. 

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