Here is everything you need to know about high functioning addicts.
High Functioning Addicts
How can you tell if you’re dealing with an addict? If your friend, coworker, or relative is a high functioning one, then knowing for sure is not as easy. High functioning addicts can expertly mask or disguise their drug problems without their family and friends knowing any better. However, there are ways to detect and uncover one.
Denial is a telltale sign of addiction – High functioning addicts may not use drugs on a daily basis. They may prefer to drink only the finest wines and do designer drugs. They can effortlessly manage their family and career, fulfilling their obligations and responsibilities easily. They may even feel entitled to indulge in their substance of addiction as a means of rewarding themselves for their hard work. Recognizing that they have an addiction problem is farthest in their mind. Their friends and loved ones sometimes fail to recognize the addiction problem even if they are presented with facts.
Living a double life -Leading a double life becomes a new normal for high functioning addicts. They are the exact opposite of the person they show and maintain to the outside world. They exude confidence, success, and everything that seems upright, yet when by themselves behind closed doors, their inner demons are unleashed. On some occasions, they feel burdened by their lies and deception, but this does not mean that they’re ready to admit their addiction and seek rehabilitation. Hitting rock bottom seems to be the thing that could motivate them to seek treatment.
Changes in Behavioral Patterns – No matter how many functional addicts rationalize that they do not have an addiction, they will still experience the consequences. Subtle changes in their behavior uncharacteristic of them may appear. They may have the tendency to isolate themselves, refusing to interact socially and failing to do family obligations. In their careers, they may display a lack of focus in completing tasks, miss deadlines, and may often call in sick. They may show some physical signs of addiction such as paranoia, insomnia, and unsteadiness in their movements.
Always an excuse – A high functioning addict is great at making excuses for their unusual behavior and strange occurrences. Coming home drunk or high, they will typically come up with a seemingly realistic story to cover his addiction.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
