You may have heard of “high-functioning” addiction. This is when someone with an active substance use disorder appears as though they have it all together. This might be because they have a job, or have maintained relationships, or otherwise don’t fit certain stereotypes about addiction.
There is no one way to experience addiction. Some people lose everything, some are high-functioning, and many are somewhere in between. A person may have outward signifiers of success but be suffering in ways you can’t see. You might think your substance use isn’t “bad enough” to have an addiction. However, if drug or alcohol use is impacting you negatively, that is a reason to consider stopping.
There’s a myth that people have to hit “rock bottom” in order to quit. This is a dangerous idea, because it can stop people from seeking the help they need. If you wait for an idea of where you need to be before you have a “real” problem, you prolong suffering. Additionally, addiction is considered a progressive disease; this means that consequences are likely to build the more time you spend in active addiction.
Everyone has different reasons for entering recovery. Being high-functioning doesn’t mean you can’t have a substance use disorder. No matter how you experience addiction, recovery is always possible.
If you are struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, there is help and hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for mental health disorders and addiction in facilities across the country. Our staff—many of whom are in recovery themselves—will help you build a great life in long-term recovery. To learn more, call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.