Just Another One: The Hidden Struggle of the High-Functioning Alcoholic
For many, the image of an alcoholic is someone whose life has visibly crumbled around them. But the reality is far more nuanced. There's a silent epidemic of "high-functioning alcoholics" – individuals who maintain successful careers, families, and social lives, all while battling a hidden addiction.
The pandemic undoubtedly exacerbated this issue. A recent study in Australia showed a million more people are now drinking wine compared to pre-pandemic times. For some, that nightly glass (or two) morphed from a stress reliever into a crutch, a constant companion that whispers "just another one" at the end of a long day.
The High-Functioning Facade
The high-functioning alcoholic often appears to have it all together. They meet deadlines, excel at work, and maintain a picture-perfect image. But beneath the surface, a constant internal battle rages. The pressure to maintain this facade can be immense, leading to feelings of isolation and shame.
Are You a High-Functioning Alcoholic? The Warning Signs
The line between social drinking and addiction can be blurry. Here are some signs that your drinking habits might be a cause for concern:
- Daily Dependence: Do you crave a drink to unwind, de-stress, or cope with difficult emotions?
- Tolerance: Are you needing to drink more and more to achieve the same effect?
- Risky Behaviour: Do you sometimes engage in risky activities while under the influence?
- Hiding Your Drinking: Do you feel the need to hide how much you're drinking or make excuses for your behaviour?
- Physical and Mental Health Issues: Are you experiencing sleep problems, anxiety, or changes in mood?
Seek Support
If you recognise yourself or your loved one in the above signs, know that you're not alone and recovery is possible. Ramsay Mental Health offers a range of confidential and effective treatment options designed to help you overcome addiction and build a healthier relationship with alcohol.
Our nationwide mental health clinics and psychology services provide expert treatment for addiction close to home, wherever you are in Australia. Find a Ramsay Mental Health clinic near you today and explore our comprehensive suite of services designed to empower your long-term recovery, including one on one therapy, detox programs, specialised inpatient programs and day programs.
Don't let "just another one" control your life.