Addiction affects nearly 50 million people nationwide. This number may be higher, because many people mask their symptoms. Known as “high-functioning,” people quietly struggling with addiction can be present in professions, schools and homes everywhere. Learn the subtle signs of high-functioning alcoholism and drug addiction, what to say to someone you suspect may be struggling and how to find help. 

What Is “High-Functioning” Alcoholism or Drug Addiction? 

It’s no secret that drinking alcohol and using drugs negatively impacts daily life. Poor performance at work or school, relationship strain, physical ailments and mood swings are outwardly visible ways substances can alter a person’s natural state. But how can you tell if someone is addicted to alcohol or drugs when they seem fine on the surface?  

This is the case for people who are “high-functioning.” They seem like they’ve got it all together, when in actuality they are dependent on substances. Many of the signs of functional alcoholism are subtle and easy to overlook. On the inside, highly functioning people may be wrestling with stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia and insecurity. They attempt to cope by using substances, which only intensifies symptoms over time and eventually leads to addiction.  

The frequency and amount of substance use by people who are high performers is often disguised by their perceived stability and success. They may have a stable schedule, be reliable, seem relatively happy, earn trophies in sports, achieve their work goals or get straight-A’s in school. This makes it difficult for those around them to ascertain whether they have a substance use disorder (SUD).  

Coworkers, coaches, teachers, friends, family, therapists and doctors can easily overlook subtle signs of high-functioning alcoholism or drug addiction when someone doesn’t show up with typical addiction signs like losing their job, housing or family, or getting bad grades and underperforming in sports.  

Just as others may have trouble identifying an SUD, people who are highly functioning while under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not recognize it in themselves. As a result, they may not seek help, leading to stronger symptoms, deeper addiction and ultimately, isolation.   

How to Know If You or a Loved One May Be High-Functioning While Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol  

The most common signs of people who are high functioning while addicted to drugs or alcohol include justifying and downplaying the frequency and amount of substances they’re using, going to great lengths to hide it from others and relying on it as a coping mechanism for physical and emotional ailments. Other signs to look out for if you suspect high-functioning addiction in yourself or a loved one include: 

• Planning events around substance consumption and avoiding those without it 
• Persistent, repetitive thoughts of when and how they can use substances that get stronger until they decide to get the next drink or drug 
• Drinking alcohol or using drugs to “pregame” before social functions and then consuming more with other people without looking like they’re overdoing it  
• Feeling anxious when unsure whether substances will be available 
• Consuming substances to “take the edge off” before an important event  
• Using substances to decompress after a long day or to make it through the day 
• Hiding drugs or alcohol in unusual places 
• Feeling ashamed of substance use 
• Drinking or using drugs in secret 
• Having a high tolerance due to high consumption 
• Thinking their substance use isn’t serious because there’s no hangover 
• Thinking there’s no reason for concern because everyone around them is doing the same thing  
• Justifying substance use as a reward, using only on the weekends, or to unwind after work 
• Joking that they don’t have a problem with substance use because they only drink top shelf, use the “expensive stuff,” or specific types like marijuana or beer 
• Becoming defensive, evasive or denying the severity of the issue when asked about substance use 

If you’re involved in certain hobbies and professions, you’ll notice that unhealthy substance use is unfortunately encouraged as part of the culture. Lawyers, doctors, social workers and other healthcare workers are among high-pressure professions that have a surprising amount of high-functioning people with substance use disorders.  

People in the entertainment industry might also be expected to network and rely on substances to “steady their nerves” before interviews and performances. High school sports teams, as well as college fraternities and sororities, encourage “partying” at extreme levels while expecting high achievements and performance.  

High-functioning people can slip under the radar in these environments. These are just a few examples, but anyone, no matter who they are or what they are associated with, can fall victim to high-functioning addiction. 

Keep in mind that someone who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction while seemingly keeping life together may be afraid of losing everything they’ve worked for and achieved if anyone finds out about their strong dependency on substances. So, if you address what you’re noticing, try to maintain a calm and steady demeanor. Refrain from being accusatory or condescending.

Here are some things you can say: 

Help Is Always Available 

It is important to seek effective treatment for a substance use disorder. Drug or alcohol addiction is nothing to be ashamed of, and if left untreated it can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Reaching out to understanding, supportive professionals is incredibly worthwhile. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism or drug addiction, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our compassionate advisors so we can get you on the path to healing today.