Alcohol Abuse in Functioning Adults: Recognizing Symptoms, Understanding Dangers
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), also known as alcohol addiction or alcoholism, is a clinical diagnosis that encompasses a spectrum of alcohol-related problems, including those in individuals who maintain functional lives despite excessive alcohol use [1][2].
Diagnosing AUD
The diagnosis requires at least two of several criteria, such as excessive drinking, inability to cut down, cravings, and continued use despite negative impacts, regardless of apparent external success [1]. It's important to note that AUD can be present even if an individual appears to function well socially or professionally, as diagnosis does not require visible external impairment but rather meeting behavioral and physiological criteria over 12 months [1].
High-Functioning Alcoholics
The term "high-functioning alcoholic" is colloquial and not used clinically or diagnostically, but it describes individuals within AUD who manage to maintain outward success [2]. Signs of a high-functioning alcoholic may include avoiding critical feedback about drinking patterns, blacking out from alcohol consumption, irritability and extreme mood swings, concealing alcohol consumption, drinking substantial amounts of alcohol without appearing to be intoxicated, drinking during inappropriate situations, finishing other people's drinks, feeling guilty or ashamed after periods of drinking, trying and failing to control alcohol consumption, experiencing strong cravings for alcohol when not drinking, drinking in potentially dangerous situations, and exhibiting withdrawal symptoms when not drinking alcohol [2].
Treatment and Intervention
Treatment for AUDs can include behavioral therapies, counseling with a partner or family members, brief interventions, and support groups. Early intervention is vital for those struggling with excessive alcohol use. Resources such as the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Recovered.org, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offer assessment tools, strategies, and support to help individuals understand their drinking patterns, reduce their drinking, or quit completely [3][4][5].
Detox is often the first step for treating alcohol use disorder (AUD), which may take place at a hospital or inpatient facility, such as rehab. Medications like naltrexone, acamprosone, and disulfiram can help a person quit drinking and prevent relapse [6].
Risks and Consequences
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol carries many risks, including injuries or accidents, being a victim or a perpetrator of violence, alcohol poisoning, risky sexual behaviors, miscarriage, stillbirth, or fetal alcohol syndrome, high blood pressure, cardiovascular conditions, digestive issues, a weakened immune system, issues with memory and learning, mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, and death [7].
Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with AUD, it's essential to seek help. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available for immediate help at 988, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides immediate help and advice for those showing signs of addiction at 800-662-4357 (TTY: 800-487-4889) [8].
Recovery from AUD is a lifelong process, and many people seek further treatment and support. It's never too late to seek help and start the journey towards a healthier life.
[1] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol Use Disorder. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders
[2] American Addiction Centers. (n.d.). High-Functioning Alcoholism. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/high-functioning-alcoholic
[3] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol Screening & Assessment Tools. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-screener-drinking-levels-risk
[4] Recovered.org. (n.d.). Alcohol Addiction Self-Test. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.recovered.org/alcohol-addiction-self-test/
[5] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Find Treatment. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
[6] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Alcohol and Drug Facts: Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction
[7] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol's Damaging Effects. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body
[8] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). National Helpline. Retrieved September 1, 2022, from https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
- The spectrum of alcohol-related problems, including those in high-functioning individuals, falls under the clinical diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), encompassing excessive drinking, inability to cut down, cravings, and continued use despite negative impacts on health and wellness.
- Behavioral therapies, counseling, brief interventions, and support groups can be part of treatment for AUD, with early intervention being crucial for those struggling with excessive alcohol use.
- Resources like the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Recovered.org, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provide assessment tools, strategies, and support to help individuals identify and alter harmful drinking patterns.
- Excessive alcohol use poses various health risks, such as mental health conditions, cardiovascular issues, digestive problems, a weakened immune system, and may lead to premature death.
- Mental health professionals, including psychologists and psychiatrists, play a significant role in the diagnosis and treatment of AUD, particularly in addressing the mental health implications associated with alcohol use disorder.
