They fulfill their personal, professional, and social obligations to some extent, despite their substance abuse. Because they often exhibit success, competence, and achievement, it is difficult to recognize or acknowledge these addicts’ issues.
Identifying high-functioning drug addicts is challenging because they appear to lead healthy lives while struggling with addiction. High-functioning drug addicts, however, may exhibit several signs. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Concealing Drug Use
High-functioning addicts are skilled at hiding their drug use. They may go to great lengths to keep their addiction a secret, including being secretive about their activities, having multiple excuses for their behavior, or living a double life.
Rationalizing & Minimizing
High-functioning addicts often rationalize and minimize the extent of their drug use. They might downplay the consequences or convince themselves that they can control it. They might even justify it with reasons like stress relief or reward.
Functional Patterns
High-functioning addicts have routines that won’t interfere with their daily lives. For example, they may restrict drug use to specific times or locations to avoid suspicion and keep up with their responsibilities. Functional patterns play a huge part in why these addicts can keep up a normal appearance.
Emotional Instability
A high-functioning addict may experience mood swings or increased irritability. Nevertheless, they might be able to hide these emotional swings.
If you suspect that you’re a high-functioning addicts, asking yourself some introspective questions can help you gain clarity. Here are some questions to consider:
- Is my substance use causing problems in various areas of my life?
- Have I tried to decrease or control my substance use but been unsuccessful?
- Do I experience cravings or a strong urge to use the substance?
- Do I need more of the drug to achieve the same effect?
- Am I spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance?
- Have I neglected or abandoned activities or hobbies I once enjoyed because of my substance use?
- Has my substance use affected my relationships with family, friends, or colleagues?
- Do I continue to use the substance despite knowing it’s causing physical or psychological harm?
- Have I experienced withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or reduce my substance use?
- Do I feel anxious or distressed when I don’t have access to the substance?
It’s important to note that self-reflection and these questions are not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. However, they can provide insights into your relationship with substances and indicate any need for further evaluation or professional help.
Consider consulting with a healthcare professional, addiction specialist, or counselor if you feel these questions resonate with you or if you have concerns about your substance use. Click here to get in touch with us now.
