When you think of a drug addict, you may see a very negative picture in your mind. Perhaps someone that is physically and mentally, a mess. You may think of a criminal or a homeless person using drugs. However, this is not always the case when it comes to addicts. Those who abuse drugs daily can be classified as functional addicts. Addiction is a disease that looks very different from case to case.
Over the years, this cookie-cutter idea of an addict has created a negative stigma. While drug addiction may be a dangerous and sensitive topic for some, this stigma has made it harder to get help. A functional drug addict may be suffering in silence or be afraid to get help due to this idea. Over time, drug addiction may cause severe problems like financial problems or injury but this is not always the case.
It is important to be able to spot the signs of possible addiction in loved ones or friends. Someone you know may be employed and living successfully but also struggling from drug addiction. If this is the case, Discovery Institute may be able to help. Once you’ve helped a loved one take the first step towards recovery, we’ll be their guide to a sober life. Don’t wait, get help today.
What Does a Functional Drug Addict Look Like?
A functional addict does not fit the image that comes to mind when you think of a ‘drug addict’. A functioning drug addict may seem completely normal; they’ll pay their bills, go to the gym, make it to their kid’s practices, and generally be in control of their life. By looking at a functional addict, you may not suspect that anything is wrong. Only close family members and themselves can truly determine the early signs of an addiction.
While there are many different physical effects of abusing drugs, there are a lot of social and behavioral effects as well. While they may be functional addicts right now, over time things can start to worsen. If a person does not take a hold of their addiction they can end up becoming homeless or riddled with health problems and financial problems. This is why it’s extra important to look out for the signs.
The Signs and Symptoms of A Functional Addict
There are a lot of red flags that can indicate a bigger issue at hand. Looking out for these takes patience and assurance. No matter how much a person may try to hide their addiction, some certain effects and behaviors indicate a problem. Even with a functional drug addict, there are still telling signs of an addiction. Some of the possible signs of drug addiction include the following:
- Secrecy – Being secretive about addiction can be a big indicator. They may be guarded or uncomfortable when someone inquires how they’re spending their time.
- Excuses or Justifications for drug use – A functional drug addict may use their job or school as a mask to use drugs. Particularly as a way to manage/relieve their stress.
- Isolation/Confinement – A functional addict may be accustomed to a set pattern or routine (which is a red flag). This is to stay close to their go-to drug source. As time goes on, they may begin to separate from their family and friends more and more to get their drug dosage.
- Decreased Physical health – While the person may insist that everything is okay and they have it under control, their addiction will eventually begin to show. It doesn’t take long for a drug to affect a person’s system; this will result in an absence of work, hobbies, and other responsibilities. Not to mention worsened health and even memory loss.
- A double Life – A functional drug addict may be living or preoccupied with a double life. They may be absent from family gatherings or events to use drugs. They may disappear for long periods of time before returning fatigued or overly energetic.
- Bigger Problems at Home – The relationship with those around a drug addict can deteriorate over time. It can cause stress and pain as you see a loved one begin to fall into addiction. What starts as neglecting responsibilities can evolve into aggressive/dangerous behavior.
Some of these telling signs can appear over time and can be hard to spot at times. It is not an easy feat but it is crucial to get proper help for a loved one. In many cases, a functional drug addict will be convinced that everything is under control and nothing is wrong.
This may be connected to the idea that people who abuse drugs are apparent and obvious. Addiction can affect anyone, doesn’t matter if they are a doctor, businessman, teacher, parent, or politician. Make sure to look out for these signs so you can help a loved one get proper help today.
Commonly Abused Drugs by Functional Addicts
Not all cases of drug addiction are the same, this is especially true for cases of functioning drug addicts. There are a few factors that determine the severity and problematic nature of a person’s addiction. This can be how much they are taking of a drug, how frequent, and its effects. It can be hard to list a definite list that fits all cases. Here are a few of the most commonly abused drugs today:
- Alcohol
- Prescription drugs
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Adderall
- Marijuana
Each of these drugs can be very addictive and can be problematic down the road. While a person may be able to function on the surface, their body will eventually take a toll. It is essentially impossible to truly be a ‘functioning’ addict. The negative effects of these drugs are inevitable and cannot be stopped if a person continues using them.
You Cannot be ‘Functional’ as a Drug Addict
While a functional addict might think they have everything under control and that there isn’t a problem, eventually things change. As someone becomes addicted to a drug they will continuously use it until they eventually become dependent on the drug. They may also become tolerant to its effects, which requires more dosage to get its effects. As time goes on, the person will eventually feel the negative effects. This comes in the form of physical, mental, and social effects.
Drugs have an impact on us no matter how much we think we might be in control. What can start as casual use can become a full-blown addiction. It doesn’t take long for a person’s life to feel the effects of drugs. Relationships can be ruined, lives can be destroyed and lost if the person does not get the help they need. Doing nothing is not an option, if you or a loved one may be a ‘functional’ addict, it’s time to get help.
How to Approach a Loved One About Help
The problem with functional addicts is that they may be abused for so long they don’t see a problem. At that particular moment, they may not see the issues at hand until it’s too late. Eventually, their life will take a turn for the worse (it becomes a matter of ‘when’, not ‘if’). With this in mind, it’s important, to be honest, and open with a loved one. Informing them about the possible dangers and effects of their addiction is a good starting point.
Opening up honestly and looking at treatment options can be beneficial for you and them. While it may be hard, it is crucial to be open and transparent about their addiction and how it is affecting you. After, both of you can look for treatment options that will work best for them. If you notice the behavioral signs of possible addiction, don’t wait until it’s too late.
Getting Addiction Treatment
While it can be overwhelming at times, it’s best to look for a treatment center that will meet all your needs. At Discovery Institute we make sure to cater to all your needs. In a general sense, there are several widely used treatment options for drug addiction. This is on a case by cases basis and is personalized specifically for the person. Some of the common treatment options include:
- Detoxification
- Inpatient/Residential Treatment
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Family therapy
- Support Groups
- AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
- Other therapy methods (CBT, DBT, etc.)
Even if the person thinks they have their addiction under control, this is not the full picture. Being a functional drug addict is a slippery slope, one you’ll eventually fall from. It’s also crucial to remember that no matter how bad things get, it is never too late to get help.
Discovery Institute is Here to Help
Discovery is ready to welcome those who are willing to make a change in their life. We understand how devastating addiction can be, especially for a functional drug addict. With a variety of personalized and effective treatment options, we’re ready to help you towards a better life. Contact us today to learn about our facility and our treatment options.
Dr. Joseph Ranieri D.O. earned his BS in Pharmacy at Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1981 and His Doctorate Degree in Osteopathic Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1991. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Diplomate of the American Board of Preventive Medicine Addiction Certification. Dr. Ranieri has lectured extensively to physicians, nurses, counselors and laypeople about the Disease of Addiction throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 2012.
