Functional alcoholism is difficult to recognize. Here's what you need to know about spotting the signs of alcohol abuse and getting help.

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G E T T I N G A N E A R L Y S T A R T
W O R K I N G H U N G O V E R
People who are functioning alcoholics may not drink all day
every day, but beginning the day with alcohol may be a
warning sign of deeper-lying issues.
into work hungover is often viewed as a sign of a good time
the night before. But regularly toughing it through the day
while nursing a migraine, fighting back nausea, or struggling
with vertigo should be a wake-up call.
3 S E C R E T I V E D R I N K I N G
Even if you don’t think you have a problem, there are many
signs you should look out for. If you see any of these signs in
yourself or loved ones, it may be time to get help.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF
FUNCTIONAL ALCOHOLISM
Having to drink in secret to avoid judgment or raising
concerns is a red flag. If you have to downplay your drinking
habits in order to not arouse suspicion, it’s time to re-
evaluate your relationship with alcohol.
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P R E - G A M I N G
E X C E E D I N G S E T L I M I T S
B L A C K O U T S ” A N D M E M O R Y I S S U E S
D R I N K I N G I N S T E A D O F E A T I N G
D E F E N S I V E N E S S O F D R I N K I N G H A B I T S
J O K I N G A B O U T A L C O H O L I S M
This common tradition among the partying crowd is a harmful
habit that could indicate alcohol abuse.
Going out with a specific boundary set only to exceed your
self-imposed limit may be a sign of impulse control issues.
Getting drunk to the point of blacking out is dangerous for
everyone involved.
Making choices to purchase alcohol over food or lacking an
appetite in favor of drinking is not only damaging to one’s
health, but it could also be implicative of functional
alcoholism. Pay attention.
Deflection and defensiveness when they express concern for
one’s alcohol consumption can be telling of the true depth of
alcohol abuse.
They say behind every joke is a bit of truth, which may ring
true for jokes about alcoholism or being an alcoholic.