Intervention Techniques for High-Functioning Alcoholics
Alcoholism doesn’t always look the way that it is stigmatized. A common assumption is that alcohol renders a person dysfunctional. While it is true in most cases, there are many examples in which a person functions well even when addicted to alcohol. Not every alcoholic fits the stereotype that we normally categorize people in. Many people can manage their lives effectively while also having a drinking problem. Such individuals are referred to as high-functioning alcoholics. Recognizing the signs in such a situation is very important so that the harmful effects of alcohol can be avoided. Keep reading this article to understand some effective interventions for high-functioning alcoholics in order to seek help in time..
High-functioning Alcoholics: An Overview
High-functioning alcoholics (HFAs) can maintain a normal lifestyle even when they are struggling with alcohol addiction. Often, such individuals excel in most domains such as career, family life, or social life. It is not easy to guess that they are alcoholics. This does not mean that their alcoholism is not as severe as others. There are some hidden ways to determine if they have a problem.
Signs of High-Functioning Alcoholism
By recognizing the signs of alcoholism, people can work towards treating the issue. Common symptoms of addiction among high-functioning alcoholics include:
- Â Always needing alcohol to relax
- Drinking more alcohol than intended
- Not being able to cope with emotional stress without alcohol
- Not expressing alcohol consumption in front of others
- Not accepting how much you drink
- Not being able to cut down on alcohol
An intervention is a planned meeting where friends and family confront the person about their drinking habits.
How to Help Your Loved One?
Some successful ways to help your loved one who is suffering from high-functioning alcoholism are explained below:
Learn More About HFA
If you feel like your loved one doesn’t exhibit visible signs of alcoholism, it is better to learn more about HFA to determine how you can help them. You can understand the causes, strategies, and even subtle signs that can help you determine if professional help is required.Â
Talk to Them
Talking to a family member about their drinking problem is very important. You should plan to talk to your loved one. However, it is vital to educate yourself on the subject so that you can talk empathetically. Feeling stigmatized can be difficult and discouraging.
If necessary, close family members may prepare specific questions regarding the situation of an HFA. It is important to focus on concern and love instead of frustration.Â
Choose the Right Time and Place
Choosing the right time and place to talk about interventions and drinking issues also quite matters. Doing it among others can be detrimental to your relationship as well as the other person.Â
Have a Treatment Plan Ready
Planning an intervention plan is also necessary. Educate yourself on different treatments in advance can beget a healthy conversation. Alcohol treatment options like rehab centers and support groups can be researched in time.Â
How the Talk May Go
The talk with an hHFA should go in the following ways.Â
Offer Compassion
Initiate the conversation with love and concern. Make it clear that this talk means nothing other than their well-being. It should be coming from a place of support.Â
Empathetically Put Forth an Evidence
You can show how drinking is negatively affecting different aspects of their lives. This may include missing important commitments regarding work or family.Â
Offer a Solution
Offer the solution that you think will work for your loved one. Inform them that this solution can actually lead their life toward betterment.Â
Set Boundaries
It is also important to inform that not having proper boundaries can also lead to certain issues. In case their behaviors are drastically affecting you, you should be able to limit contact or support.Â
Be Prepared for Resistance
It is highly likely that the person will react very defensively to the whole situation. They may also entirely deny all your claims. While this can be very frustrating, it is important to not lose calm and composure. Patience is key.Â
Post-Intervention Support
If the intervention is successful and the person agrees to seek help, ongoing support is also important. Here are some ways to provide continuous support:
Keep in Touch
Keep offering encouragement. Attend family support groups in which you can better understand that you are not alone in this journey. You may engage with their providers as well if they are comfortable.Â
Keep Learning About the Interventions
Learn more about the struggles and treatment process of recovery. This is vital for improving knowledge and support.Â
Encourage Healthy Habits
Engage in healthy habits and encourage your loved one to do the same. Attend parties that are alcohol free and get in touch with people who know how to have fun without alcohol.Â
Be Patient
Recovery from any sort of addiction is not easy. It requires a ton of patience and is filled with many ups and downs. Be patient and learn how you can counter certain setbacks.Â
Seek Support for Yourself
Supporting someone through recovery can be challenging. Consider joining a support group for friends and family of alcoholics to share your experiences and gain advice.
Professional Help for HFAs
In addition to personal support, professional help is essential. Treatment options for high-functioning alcoholics include:
Medical Detox
Detox is a medically supervised treatment in which individuals can withdraw from alcohol without risking their life. Medical detox is the best way to do so.Â
Appropriate Rehabilitation
Inpatient and outpatient rehab programs offer alcohol addiction treatment that are comprehensive. These may include detox, counseling, stay at the rehab, and other medical support systems that may be required.Â
Therapy and Support Groups
Individual and group therapy can address the underlying issues that may contribute to alcoholism. There is also help available in the form of groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or group therapy. These offer a sense of belonging to an individual suffering from addiction.
Medications
Medications like alprazolam, disulfiram, or naltrexone can be very effective for AUD. Enrolling in a medication-assisted treatment program (MAT) can be a great option.Â
Takeaway
Intervening with a high-functioning alcoholic requires careful planning, compassion, and ongoing support. While the process can be challenging, it’s crucial to remember that alcoholism is a serious condition that requires treatment. By recognizing the signs, preparing thoughtfully, and offering unwavering support, friends and family can help high-functioning alcoholics take the first steps toward recovery and a healthier, happier life.