Introduction:
Alcoholism is a serious and pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. One group that often goes unnoticed and unrecognised as alcoholics are high functioning professionals. These individuals, despite their ability to maintain successful careers and personal lives, suffer silently from alcohol addiction. This blog post aims to ‘scratch the surface’ of the complexities, signs and symptoms of professional high functioning alcoholics to shed a light on a group that is frequently overlooked.
I. Denial and Concealment of the Problem:
One of the primary signs of a professional high functioning alcoholic is their adeptness at denying or concealing their addiction. These individuals often possess exceptional skills in maintaining a façade of normalcy, making it difficult for others to perceive their struggles with alcohol. They may rationalise their excessive drinking as stress relief or a reward for their hard work, effectively masking the detrimental effects it has on their physical and mental health.
II. High Tolerance and Increased Consumption:
Professional high functioning alcoholics tend to develop a high tolerance for alcohol over time. This means that they require larger quantities of alcohol to achieve the same level of intoxication that a non-alcoholic person might experience. They may consume alcohol more frequently, often starting earlier in the day or even during work hours, disguising it as a necessary part of their job or socialising with clients.
III. Performance Issues and Deterioration of Work Quality:
Despite their ability to maintain successful careers, professional high functioning alcoholics often struggle with performance issues and a decline in work quality. While they may still meet deadlines and complete tasks, they may do so with reduced efficiency and accuracy due to the impaired cognitive abilities caused by alcohol consumption. This decline may go unnoticed by colleagues or superiors, as these individuals are skilled at compensating for their shortcomings.
IV. Social Isolation and Relationship Struggles:
Alcoholism often leads to social isolation and strained relationships, and professional high functioning alcoholics are no exception. Their excessive drinking may cause them to withdraw from social gatherings or events where alcohol is not readily available or accepted. Additionally, their erratic behaviour and mood swings can strain personal relationships, leading to conflicts and a breakdown in communication.
V. Physical and Mental Health Issues:
Excessive alcohol consumption takes a toll on both physical and mental health. Professional high functioning alcoholics may experience a range of physical symptoms, including frequent headaches, liver problems, and increased susceptibility to illnesses. Mentally, they may suffer from increased stress, anxiety, and depression, using alcohol as- a- means to self-medicate and cope with their emotional struggles.
Professional high functioning alcoholics are a hidden group within society, often overlooked due to their ability to maintain successful careers and personal lives. However, the signs of their addiction are present and can be identified by those who are aware. Denial and concealment, increased tolerance, performance issues, social isolation, and physical and mental health problems are all indicators of this issue. It is crucial that we recognise and support these individuals, as early intervention and treatment can help prevent their addiction from spiralling out of control.
By raising awareness about the signs of professional high functioning alcoholics, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society that provides the necessary resources for recovery and support.
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