What is a Functioning Alcoholic? (Transcript)

So, it’s another one of those. The definition is going to mean something different to everyone.

The “Official” Definition

I think doctors use it to mean someone who is not really admitting that they are an alcoholic yet. That they are a heavy drinker, an alcoholic, that they are going about their normal day. They’re going to work, going to school, whatever they’re doing, and they’re actually functioning properly, they’re not getting any pains. So, they’re not admitting that they have an alcohol problem.

Are You Functioning?

I’d agree with that definition to a certain degree. I think that most people who are listening to this video are functioning alcoholics. They’re people with a drink problem, who know they have a drink problem, or might have a drink problem, but they’re still able to go out and do their days work. They are functioning.

When are you not functioning? When you’re dead… you’re no longer functioning. If you’re an alcoholic and you’re doing other things besides drinking, then you’re a functioning alcoholic. But I think what they mean is that you’re a part of society, and maybe other people don’t recognize that you’re an alcoholic, or that you’ve got a drink problem. It’s all six of one or half a dozen of the other really.

Another Label

I’m not a big fan of labels. Everyone is completely different. Everyone’s problem is different. Your problem is not the same as mine. Your life is not the same as mine. So, how can your alcohol problem be the same as mine. It doesn’t make any sense to me.

It’s just a label. A stupid label! It makes it easier for those who are trying to ‘treat’ us. They love putting us into little boxes.

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I hope you got some great value from this post.
Until next time…
Onwards and Upwards!
Kev

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