They keep their alcohol stashed in a secret location where their friends and family won’t find it, like in their desk or car. One of the most famous classic Hollywood stars, Elizabeth Taylor spent over three decades of her career addicted to alcohol high functioning alcoholic and painkillers. She became the first celebrity to openly admit herself to rehab at the Betty Ford Center in 1983. Alexander the Great was a legendary Ancient Greek general who is considered one of the greatest military commanders of all time.

When you’re living with a high-functioning alcoholic, your own health is at stake as well as the welfare of your loved one. By getting help for your loved one, you may be able to avoid further consequences of alcoholism and build a healthier future for your family. People can have a varied reaction and tolerance to alcohol and that doesn’t necessarily mean they are alcoholics. However, as functioning alcoholics drink more regularly, they develop a higher tolerance. They still want to feel the buzz or numb out from their problems for a while, so they will begin drinking more as their tolerance to alcohol increases. It can be difficult to acknowledge that a friend or loved one is struggling with an alcohol addiction. After recognizing that someone needs help, it is important to approach them about their behavior.

Potential Negative Impacts of Ongoing Alcoholism

Eventually, he even started to sneak drinks on the set, disguised as water in a paper cup. The infographic below shares the story of ten of the most famous high-functioning alcoholics in history, and how they either turned their life around or succumbed to their alcoholism. If you feel like you may have a problem with alcohol abuse, take a look at these questions that can help you to better understand your situation. Research suggests that some high-functioning alcoholics never experience major problems, but they also never live life to their full potential.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, there is help available. Get in touch today and let us guide you to the recovery option that’s right for you. While being a high-functioning alcoholic might not seem like a big issue because it doesn’t yet impact your daily life, when left untreated, it can eventually catch up with you.

Signs & Symptoms of a High-Functioning Alcoholic

It is important to understand exactly how alcohol can affect your body so that you can be aware of changes that occur. A variety of genetic and environmental factors affect a person’s chances of becoming addicted.