Most of us assume we know the warning signs of alcohol abuse when we see them. While certain signs are obvious and noticeable, many of them often go unnoticed by close friends and family. Perhaps we could take this opportunity to discuss some of the common warning signs and signs that friends and family often overlook.
It turns out that there are a lot of misconceptions on this topic. The truth is that many alcoholics are ‘active alcoholics’ and you would never believe they have a drinking problem as there are no obvious signs. These are people who are good at their jobs, sometimes even high performers, but are also completely dependent on alcohol to function normally. They cannot relax or sleep until they have had a drink (quote: 1).
Yes, there are those who abuse alcohol, who have a drink and cannot stop drinking until they are totally drunk and fall into a drunken stupor. And yes, we all know people who misbehave after their second or third drink. We have seen abusive marital behavior, bar conflicts, and drunk driving crashes. These are the obvious signs of alcohol abuse and the behavior we generally associate with alcohol abuse (quote: 2).
What are the signs of a functioning alcoholic?
A functioning alcoholic rarely hints at their drinking problem and may not even realize they have a problem. In fact, they do not associate “problems” with drinking, but rather drinking is a viable way to relieve problems and stress. At the end of a long day, they may have two or three strong alcoholic drinks and then go to bed.
Since your body is dependent on alcohol, you are fine in the morning with no hangover as there is still alcohol in your system. If you’re drinking with friends, you’ll be the one roaring and ready to go in the morning, while all your friends are hungover and want to sleep late, still feeling lethargic.
For the working alcoholic, a quick sip of alcohol or a drink at lunch and they’re ready for the rest of the day. Unfortunately, if they don’t get their drink in the middle of the afternoon, they can get a little gross, irritated, and difficult to deal with. Once they have that drink, they are perfectly fine again until evening.
Some of the warning signs of a functional alcoholic are that they have stored alcohol on their desks at work or in their car. They always have it on hand. At home, it’s readily available, and tough things are often your first choice, although they can start with some wine or beer.
References:
1.) “Psychological Correlations and Treatment Outcomes for High and Low Social Functioning Alcoholics”, by Robert C. MacMahon, Robert S. Davidson and Patrick M. Flynn, published in the International Journal of Addictions. Pages 819-835 | Posted online: Jul 03, 2009. https://doi.org/10.3109/10826088609027395.
2.) “Early Identification of Alcohol Abuse: Critical Issues and Psychosocial Indicators for a Composite Index”, by Harvey Skinner, Stephen Holt and Yedy Israel, published in the CMA Journal May 1, 1981, Volume 124.