...

What Does It Mean to Be a Fully Functional Addict

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘fully functional addict’, but what does it mean and what does it look like in practice? When you think of an addict, you might have a particular caricature that comes to mind, full of all sorts of cliches. However, that’s not necessarily what every addict looks like.

A person can be in the full grips of addiction without necessarily looking like it on the outside. We’re going to talk more about that today and discuss some of the telltale signs of a fully functional addict below, so read on.

Functioning While Addicted

Not everyone responds to addiction in the same way. While some people find it impossible to keep up the facade of an ordinary life when they’re addicted to drugs, others do make it work. And they’re not less addicted because of it. They might go to work and turn up on time and manage to hide certain behaviors from their friends and even their close family members. But for these people, hiding their addiction becomes a big task and one that only gets harder and harder to do as time passes. It’s not an enviable way to live.

Finding Excuses for Behavior

For many people who are operating as what we call functioning addicts, their behavior isn’t quite normal and this is something that people generally pick up on sooner or later. And that means they have to find excuses for the strange ways in which they’re acting. They might blame their work life on the fact that they’re always tired or drained or away from home. That’s often an excuse that satisfies many spouses and family members. But finding excuses for strange behaviors and absences can be tiring over time.

A Lack of Control in Social Situations

A person who’s addicted to a substance might find that they have a lack of control over their drinking or drug use even when in a social setting with other people. Losing control more quickly and being unable to control impulses is one of the telltale signs of addiction and it’s something that people can pick up on in these social settings. People with addictions find it hard to drink or take recreational drugs in a social setting in a limited way because that would mean having to stay in control of the situation.

Difficult Mornings

It’s often the case that people with drug or alcohol addiction problems can find it most difficult to function in a regular way in the morning. This might be because they were drinking or taking drugs the evening before and had a hangover the following morning. It’s one of the reasons why maintaining a regular schedule and showing up for work on time can be so challenging for people who are in the grips of addiction. They might find other things to blame for their disheveled or tired demeanor in the morning, such as simply not being a morning person.

Losing Interest in Things They Used to be Passionate About

When someone is in the grips of an addiction, they often lose touch with the things that they used to be very passionate about. Their hobbies and interests might diminish in importance as they instead become consumed by a focus on the drug they’re addicted to or alcohol. This loss of interest in things that they used to care so much about is something people should look out for when it comes to spotting an addiction problem in themselves or someone close to them.

Continuing to Work But Performance Declines

A fully functional addict will probably be able to keep up their work schedule or routine for the most part. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll be working to the same standards that they did in the past, and that can be a problem for their employers and their colleagues. Functioning often means doing the bare minimum while their general performance at work starts to decline. A small minority of fully functional addicts might be able to keep performances high in spite of their addiction being one of the core focuses in their life.
Although it might seem like fully functioning addicts are in control from day to day, that doesn’t last for long. Addiction problems can lead to all kinds of consequences for you and those around you. If you’re concerned about a habit you have or you want to overcome an addiction, you should seek out the support that’ll help you get back on track.

 

Download this article

Living with Schizophrenia: Treatment Innovations and Coping Mechanisms

Schizophrenia, a chronic mental health condition, can feel overwhelming for those diagnosed and their loved ones. However, advances in treatment and effective coping mechanisms are paving the way for better management and improved quality of life. Whether you're...

Healing from PTSD: Proven Therapies and Support Systems That Work

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions worldwide, impacting mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Although PTSD can feel overwhelming, effective therapies and support systems exist to help individuals recover and live fulfilling lives. This blog...

Suicidal Thoughts and Mental Health: Recognizing Warning Signs and Finding Help

Every year, millions of people silently struggle with suicidal thoughts, a deeply painful and isolating experience. While these feelings can make it seem like there’s no way out, it’s important to remember that help and hope are always available. By understanding the...

What to Expect in a Residential Treatment Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

Entering a residential treatment program can feel like a big, intimidating step. Whether you or a loved one is seeking care for addiction recovery or mental health support, understanding what the process entails can bring clarity and peace of mind. This guide walks...

Psychosis Demystified: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Psychosis is a term often associated with confusion and stigma, making it critical to demystify what it entails. It refers to a mental health condition characterized by a loss of touch with reality. For medical professionals, mental health advocates, and caregivers,...

Get In Touch With Us Today

Pick up the phone, fill out a form or chat with us below to get started on your free consultation and treatment assessment.

Complete Pre-Assessment

Once you reach a Findlay Recovery Center treatment coordinator, we will do a simple pre-assessment to make sure we’re a good fit for you.

Plan Travel & Admit

Our caring treatment advisors will help plan travel & anything else you need before you enter our drug rehab program in Ohio!

GETTING HELP FOR ADDICTION HAS NEVER BEEN SO EASY

Get Help Now

Call Now Button