Does Functional Addiction Need Delray Beach Rehab As Badly As Other Addiction Types?

The decision to go to rehab — or to help convince a loved one to go – can be a difficult one, especially when a functional addict is involved. A functional addict, by definition, is someone who has a dependency on substances, such as alcohol or drugs, but often is difficult to determine whether they are actually addicted. Some of the telltale signs of a functional addict may go unnoticed by some of the most aware and involved people – and if you have missed the signs, then you shouldn’t feel badly.

This is because the person exhibits specific behaviors that may convince you otherwise – such as denying that he has a problem or making excuses for her behavior. There are many aware functional addicts, as well. They know they are struggling but they don’t realize the coping behaviors of denial and excuse are holding them back from a journey to recovery. Whether you suspect you may be a functional addict – or you love one – there is hope. Read on to learn our four key tips for determining whether functional addicts need Delray Beach Rehab as badly as other addiction types. What you learn may surprise you.

What You Can Do Right Now

What many people don’t realize is that functional addicts need support just as much as other people struggling with addiction. The need for support is great and the risk presented to their health and livelihood is pronounced. But the difference is that the functional addict may have a harder time accepting what he or she needs to do to get better. Functional addicts are often afraid of being found out. They are struggling with a substance but they are embarrases or in denial. Something like this couldn’t possibly happen to them, could it? With addictive substances it can and often does. This is where the loved one can really help, but it will take courage on both of your parts. Try these steps to get started:

  • Set up a meeting to discuss your concern about the person’s current state
  • Approach with compassion, rather than judgment
  • Speak the truth and point toward reality and the present moment

If you are a concerned friend or family member, you’ll first want to set up a meeting with the addicted person. You need intentional and focused time in order to talk to the person, reason with them and tell them you are concerned. If you are the functional addict who is asked to the meeting, you should try to accept and hear out your loved one. For the loved one: You cannot approach with anger. You must approach from a place of compassion. A functional addict must accept the reality of his situation and behavior. If he is not ready to accept your compassionate plea, then it may not be the time for rehab. Every person struggling with addiction must make this decision on their own – with the support of loved ones in their lives.

So try to be patient. Also remember that as you are speaking with compassion, you also must speak with truth. What has the person been doing? What are the examples of being in denial or making excuses? Are they trying to convince you that everything is Okay – or that they aren’t struggling? Worse yet, have they recently lost a job or acted in an uncharacteristic way but don’t seem phased by it? These are all signs that a functional addict is trying to cope and hide her problem. It’s important during this time that you gently but truthfully press the person on answers to questions and that you don’t let the person tell you otherwise. You can respectfully disagree, but you must point out reality. If you are the person who feels he may be the functional addict, you should also try to ask yourself these questions and challenge yourself to give an honest answer.

Most functional addicts who want to get help finally realize that they are not being honest with themselves. That can be a turning point in this journey—and we are ready to help. You’ll find compassionate and professional counselors who are not there to judge but to help you move from the vicious and debilitating cycle of addiction. You don’t have to struggle every day alone. Join a community of support that can help you cope and recover. We are here to help you, and 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your journey to recovery can start right now, so call 833-846-5669 to get started.