1(800) 615-1067Helping a functioning alcoholic can be challenging because they may appear to be able to manage their alcohol use, but the reality is that it can still have negative impacts on their health and relationships. Here are some steps you can take to support a functioning alcoholic:
Express your concern: Let the functioning alcoholic know that you are concerned about their alcohol use and that you want to help them.
Educate yourself: Educate yourself on alcoholism, including the signs and symptoms, risks, and available resources for recovery.
Encourage professional help: Encourage the functioning alcoholic to seek professional help for their alcohol use. This may involve contacting a healthcare provider, addiction specialist, or treatment program.
Offer support: Offer emotional support to the functioning alcoholic during their journey towards recovery. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and experiences, and offer a listening ear.
Help them find resources: Help the functioning alcoholic find resources for their recovery, such as support groups or treatment programs in your area.
Set boundaries: Set clear boundaries with the functioning alcoholic around their alcohol use and the impact it is having on your relationship. This may involve setting limits on their behavior or refusing to enable their alcohol use.
Attend support groups: Attend support groups such as Al-Anon to receive support and guidance on how to deal with the functioning alcoholic’s alcohol use.
Remember, helping a functioning alcoholic can be a difficult and ongoing process that requires ongoing support and commitment. By expressing your concern, educating yourself, encouraging professional help, offering support, helping them find resources, setting boundaries, and attending support groups, you can support the functioning alcoholic in their journey towards a healthier, sober life.