J
jeremy
4 minutes
High-Functioning Alcohol Use Disorder and Its Subtle Signs
Some people drink heavily and still keep their job, pay their bills, and look fine. People sometimes call this 'high-functioning' drinking. It is not a separate diagnosis. It is an alcohol use disorder that is well hidden. The signs are quieter. The person may have high tolerance, meaning they drink a lot without seeming drunk. They may drink alone, hide bottles, or drink before a party. They may need a drink to relax, to sleep, or to start the day. They may joke about drinking, or have memory gaps called blackouts. Their hands may shake in the morning. Often a spouse or coworker quietly covers for them. Success can hide the problem from everyone, even the person drinking. Some of these signs have other causes. Shaky hands can come from anxiety, caffeine, or a medical problem. Memory gaps can come from some medicines or other illness. Look for the pattern. Ask how much and how often, not just whether life is going well. Never tell a heavy daily drinker to stop all at once. Stopping suddenly can cause dangerous withdrawal, so it needs medical help. After this Concept you can spot the quiet signs of hidden heavy drinking even when work and bills look fine.