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What is a Functioning Addict & Am I One?

Contrary to what some people believe, not every drug addict is homeless or a noticeable mess who has hit rock bottom.

These ideas are common stereotypes, but in reality, substance abuse falls on a wide spectrum. Some people struggle with addiction more severely and noticeably than others. In fact, you could be a high functioning addict and not even realize it.

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What is A Functioning Addict?

While functioning alcoholics are more well known, someone with a drug problem may also be a functioning addict. A functioning addict is someone who has a substance abuse problem but still appears to lead a relatively normal life from outward appearances. Unlike the normal stereotype associated with addiction, a functioning drug addict may have a steady job, be successful, and have a good relationship with their family. Because the functioning addict can keep up appearances, their loved one may not even be aware that they have a problem.

Although their substance abuse may not be evident on the outside, it is still dangerous. In many cases, functioning drug addicts can fall farther into addiction with time, and their problem becomes more noticeable. Long-term drug addiction can also lead to serious health problems that may be irreversible past a certain point. The best thing a high functioning drug addict can do is to get early professional help  at our drug rehab center in New England to keep their problem from getting out of hand.

Although their substance abuse may not be evident on the outside, it is still dangerous. In many cases, functioning drug addicts can fall farther into addiction with time, and their problem becomes more noticeable. Long-term drug addiction can also lead to serious health problems that may be irreversible past a certain point. The best thing a high functioning drug addict can do is to get early professional help  at our drug rehab center in New England to keep their problem from getting out of hand.

Signs of a functioning drug addict may include:

  • Justifying substance use
  • Blaming routine substance use on work or stress
  • Neglecting physical appearance and regular grooming habits
  • Hiding substance use from others
  • Overindulging regularly
  • Being unable to control amount consumed
  • Thinking about drugs frequently
  • Using at work or other inappropriate times
  • Struggling to stop on your own
  • Spending time with other high functioning addicts
  • Experiencing withdrawal
  • Getting into financial problems
  • Slipping up on responsibilities
  • Engaging in risky behavior more regularly

All of these are functioning drug addict symptoms and can be the first signs of more trouble ahead. Instead of ignoring your problems and waiting for them to get worse, get help now. Our Boston IOP could be what you need to get sober and steer clear of more problems down the road.

At Banyan Massachusetts, we want to help you begin the journey to sobriety today. Call us now at 888-280-4763.

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.