Treatment Options for High-Functioning Alcoholics
Seeking treatment for alcoholism can be especially difficult for high-functioning alcoholics. These individuals lead lives that appear normal in every way; they are often successful by most societal standards. Yet they are secretive about their addiction, and their alcohol consumption can be potentially lethal.
The high-functioning alcoholic is a disguise that allows one to live with the appearance of normality in personal and work spheres. Heavy drinking is something that definitely impinges on one’s mental health. Simply keeping the secret of addiction creates a tremendous strain and can be very stressful. Today’s article will delve deeper into functional alcoholism and the proper treatment for alcohol addiction.
High-Functioning Alcoholism: An Overview
Unlike the typical portrayals of alcoholics, people with high-functioning alcoholism (HFA) often avoid conventional treatments because they do not display the kinds of signs that call for an intervention. They do not have the kinds of problems that usually get people to seek help for their drinking – like losing a job, getting arrested, or having a spouse move out.
Just the opposite, in fact: many HFAs are very successful, and this can easily lead to an appearance of being in control and having no need for help. But HFA is a very progressive condition, and the odds of recovery without intervention are very low. Those who do recover are much more likely to do so with help than on their own.
Common Treatment Methods
Individualized Therapy
One of the most effective treatment methods for high-functioning alcoholics is individualized therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, helps people identify the triggers and faulty thinking that lead them to use alcohol. Therapists work with HFAs to unearth and overcome the obstacles that keep them from using healthier coping mechanisms instead of turning to alcohol.
Outpatient Treatment Programs
Programs offering outpatient treatment for alcohol addiction are particularly helpful for high-functioning addicts. They allow the program participant to have the kind of flexible, around-the-clock schedule that makes it possible to keep up with work and family obligations while also complying with the dictates of the treatment program.
Support Groups
The types of addiction meetings available these days, such as various 12-step or faith-based programs, offer a somewhat different version of community. These sorts of meetings are held in a private locale, and provide a safe space for those in recovery to fellowship and help one another.
Medical Interventions
In certain instances, individuals with HFA may necessitate medical assistance, which could involve the administration of various medications. These drugs help curb the powerful cravings that might otherwise lead the individual to relapse. A doctor or addiction specialist can assess the individual with the HFA and suggest an appropriate combination of medications and therapies.
Getting the Right Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
High-functioning alcoholics are not like other alcoholics; therefore, their treatment should reflect their individuality. While these individuals may appear to do well on the outside, they are often struggling mightily on the inside. Anyone can become a high functioning addict, and the only shame is if they never seek help. So, if you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction on any level, please don’t delay in seeking treatment.
